Tag: Salisbury

Illingworth & George Wilding Crowned in Bishops Cannings

Must confess, I’m envious of the good folk of Bishops Cannings, perched here on a bench in an idyllic beer garden with spring sunshine setting, and shadowed by the striking spire church, where tasty, generously portioned yet comparatively priced bar food is served to punters awaiting some live music arranged by Wiltshire Music Events….

Jazzy and Gary, landlords of The Crown at Bishops Cannings give me a warm welcome. Considering the contrast to our now bolted village pub, where staff would barely raise an eyebrow from gazing at Eastenders on the big screen to serve you; to debate whether our pub’s closure is a sad sign of the times, opens a Pandora’s box into what landlords did to prevent it.

Here at the Crown they’re catering for all, with smiles throughout. It’s a wonderful village hub; the kettle is on if you favour a cuppa, young children wander over with their dad from the campers in the adjacent field, the atmosphere is chilled, hospitable, and nothing seems problematic. Regulars join only a sprinkling of gig seekers in a modest heated marquee. I’m here primarily for Avebury phenomenon George Wilding, on shore leave from entertaining cruisers. Illingworth as headline is a bounteous bonus ball.

I’m fully aware, amidst many choicest options being Beltane, back in Devizes tonight is the night electric blues aficionados raise the roof of the Corn Exchange, but our best writers are on the case. Though he messaged me last Sunday, I missed the prodigal son of our live circuit’s unexpected return to the Southgate, so catching up with George was overdue.

A learned, matured version of his former self told me of his travels, the ins, outs, ups and downs of performing on cruise ships; he has flourished in skill without pretension, but with the same heart. In turn I explained my pride in not only featuring upcoming young acts, but youths like our Flo reporting on their own circuit. George smiled his approval, expressing how he was once one. And at the dawn of Devizine, when it would be a regular thing to publish reviews on that generation, musicians like Tamsin Quin, Jordan Whatley, Mike Barham, and many others, all blossomed into amazing acts, and George’s were among the best received.

I first met him at Saddleback’s Battle of the Bands in 2018, which he won, but insisted he’d only accept the prize of playing the festival if the others had a chance to too. It’s this gracious benignancy which he greeted me with, and which, coupled with exceptional talent for singing and guitar, always made George stand out. Unpretentious is his show still, nurtured talent, yet the same simplicity of man and guitar is gold. He needs no setlist, nothing is prearranged. He considers himself no better than his audience, and engages with them as if they are lifelong besties. What songs will he cover? It’s interactive, you decide, but whatever is chosen you know George will pull it off, charm and entertain the audience with equal gusto.

Optimistic of the weather, he kicks off with The Kinks’ in the Summertime, runs it into the Jam’s Town Called Malice, but is already asking for input. I sat closer, to take a snap or two, and he’s tongue-in-cheek pulled Madness’s Baggy Trousers out of nowhere! George will tackle anything, yes, he cooked a fine American Pie, awakened me to the greatness of The Fratellis’ Whistle For The Choir, and we were back onto the Kinks with a backstory of Lola. Yet, I’d not recommend anyone taking on Otis Redding, or Freddie, but he does, spins it with convincing originality, making it his own, and delivers with such proficient expression, its joy to absorb, and memorable of so many great occasions to see him perform again.

The clues were all there, but I’m not Poirot; now that I see them for the first time on the same bill it’s obvious, John, frontman of the Illingworth duo is George’s uncle. Though I cannot recall the first time I saw Illingworth play, through seeing them umpteen times since, it was much later than discovering George, and wasn’t until later on John told me who his nephew was. Family connection clicked into place, seemingly, because equal to George’s talent, I never tire of watching Illingworth perform.

John and the curiously talented Jolyn Dixon’s repertoire is more structured than George’s, all sing-along, taking in country rock classics and floating from prog-rock to new wave covers. Still they raise any roof with Pink Floyd, Beatles, to The Cure adaptations, nestle some fine originals, and come up for air with John Denver’s Country Roads. Their show is one to suddenly arise from your seat and dance, without consideration as to how they obtain such a sound with just the two of them, a few guitars and cajon; they do what would take a full band, and what every pub landlord hosting live music really wants, a highly entertained and satisfied crowd.

The memorable night settles in Bishops Cannings; I’m sorry if I promised to freewheel between gigs, but the rare combination of George and Illingworth, the wonderful pub and great atmosphere had me grounded there. It doesn’t matter if Wiltshire Music Events are presenting  large scale events, such as last month’s Marley Experience tribute in Devizes, or simply a free pub gig, there’s a professionalism, in sound and talent-spotting, which will guarantee a good gig. The fact the big chief Eddie is keen to trek up to stage events here we should consider ourselves very lucky; maybe it’s the spire church of BC which makes this Salisbury bunch feel at home?!

Trending……

Poppy Rose, Ready Now….

Not being able to hold a note myself, I tip my hat to any musician in a band. Yet there’s something so much more valiant,…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th-23rd April 2024

Here we go with what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week, exciting stuff, I know!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.….

Wednesday 17th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Emmanuel Coppey and Antoine Préat at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Two times BBC Folk Award winner Daoirí Farrell is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Memory Cinema, for those with dementia, at Swindon Arts Centre are showing A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum. Tom Houghton’s It’s Not Ideal at Swindon Arts Centre. Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at The Wyvern Theatre.

Show Of Hands – Full Circle Farewell Tour at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 18th

Quiz Night at the Peppermill, Devizes in aid of The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home.

PSG Choir taster session at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Thieves & Skiddy at The Tuppenny, Swindon. The Big Fat Monthly Quiz at the Vic. 

Memory Sing at Swindon Arts Centre. Primary School Assembly Bangers Live! at Swindon Arts Centre. Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out at The Wyvern Theatre.

Fretn Keyz with Dave Howell at Rude Giant Beerhouse, Salisbury.

Friday 19th

Youth Work Auction Fundraiser at John O’Gaunt School, Trowbridge.

Take the Stage at the Neeld, in Chippenham. Chippenham Beer Festival too.

Bradford Roots Special at The Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon with Billy in the Lowground, Daisy Chapman and Thieves; Ed’s pick of the week, that one is! Preview here.

The Droogs & John E Viztic at The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon.

People Like Us at Prestbury Sports Bar, Westbury.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival, preview here. Draining The Swamp at Swindon Arts Centre. Barrelhouse & The Leon Daye Band at the Vic.

Wingin’ It at The George & Dragon, Salisbury. A Murder Mystery at Salisbury Cathedral.

Johnny Cash Revisited at Chapel Arts, Bath.

ex Wishbone Ash, Martin Turner  is at The Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 20th

Roma Antoine Exhibit and Art Sale at Tonka Bean, Devizes. Devizes Swap Shop at St James Church. The Bren Jones Big Band at the Wharf Theatre. Strange Folk at The Southgate. Down the Hatch at The Three Crowns. DJ Tappa Tappa at the Exchange.

Oriental Antiques Indigo Antiques Open Day at Manningford Bruce, Pewsey. Dutty Moonshine at the Barge on HoneyStreet. @59 at The Woodborough Social Club.

Marty’s Fake Family at The Pilot, Melksham.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #8 at the Pump in Trowbridge; preview Here.

Mighty Magic Animal at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Pop-Up Bowie at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Driftwood at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Junkyard Dogs at The King’s Arms, Amesbury. Are You Worthy & Grant Sharkey at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury. Salisbury Pride Fundraiser at The Hope & Anchor, Salisbury.

Rosie Holt – That’s Politainment! at Swindon Arts Centre. Wrong Jovi at the Vic. The Worried Men at The Queen’s Tap. The Tin Shack Band at The Woodlands Edge.

The Shires at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is sold out, so too is Bare Jams at the Tree House. Try the 41 Fords at The Sun; we love the 41 Fords!

Sunday 21st

Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm. Devizes Town Band Showtime Sensations at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Jazz on Sunday Afternoon at Little Cheverall Village Hall.

The Dirty Weather Blues Revue at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

VW Campfest begins at Stonehenge.

Mini Ravers – Spring Tour at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd

I got nothing, yet; keep a keen eye on our updating event calendar, as I’m way behind updating it, and still got the front garden to sort out! Weeds, huh? I used go out to the garden to smoke de grass, nowadays I just go out to the garden to cut de grass!!

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week!

Trending…..

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 10th-16th April 2024

Spring has sprung! There were two snails on my milk-float this morning, opening “doing it,” without shame; absolute filth! …. I should have filmed it (in a jealous rage!) there might be a gap in the market for mollusc porn! Birds, bees, now snails, they’re all getting some!

Okay, let’s get you out and about, and you never know your luck, you too can be like those snails! Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this coming week…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing: Devizes RAF Squadron still have their Easter Egg Hunt running across Devizes, until 14th April; I’d have eaten the lot by now!

And then There Were None runs at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes until Saturday; review HERE.

Wednesday 10th

Crafty Kids at Hillworth Park, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at The Southgate. White Horse Opera’s La Boheme at Lavington School opens and runs up to Saturday.

Runny Snotts Open Mic at the Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Dom Martin Solo Tour with special guest: Demi Marriner, at Chapel Arts, Bath.

 Easter Panto, Beauty And The Beast at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Pop Kids Mini Rave at the Vic, with a Big Jam Session in the evening.

Thursday 11th

PSG Choir taster session at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Boo Hewerdine plus support: Vlado Nosal at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Tommy Hale & the Magnificent Bastards at the Beehive, Swindon. Lost Revellers at The Tuppenny. Tanwood Youth Theatre’s Frozen Jr. opens at Swindon Arts Centre, runs until Sunday. An Evening Of Burlesque at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 12th

Karaoke Night with Karl Maggs at the Exchange, Devizes. 

Open Mics at The Barge on HoneyStreet, and The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.

Americana Beer Festival at The Bell, Bowden Hill, Lacock.

Sound of the Sirens at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Bluebeard in support.

This Carpenters Masquerade at Melksham Assembly Hall.

West of England Youth Orchestra Relaxed Family Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Heavy For the Tropics at The Three Horseshoes.

Jon Amor Trio at The Ram, Bath. Emma Stevens Band’s “Bloom” Tour plus support from BLÁNID at Chapel Arts.

Barrelhouse at The New Inn, Swindon. Motorheadache at the Vic. Plucking Different at the Beehive. 12 Bars Later at The Village Inn, Shaw. Sir Bradley Wiggins at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Scribes’ Boombox at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Saturday 13th

Museum Explorers Club – Animals in the Museum at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Museum Explorers club is for 5-7 year olds and is an introduction to popular topics such as the Romans and Ancient Egyptians. The Great British Yarn Crawl at Pins & Needles on Snuff Street, Devizes.

Humdinger at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Cooper’s Creek at The Southgate. Dreamettes at Devizes Conservative Club. And Stevie MC is in the mix at the Exchange.

But, Editor’s Pick of the Week is The Marley Experience at the Corn Exchange, Devizes. I’ve been looking forward to this since CrownFest last summer; hope to see you there…jammin’ ‘til the jam is done!

Meatloud at Melksham Assembly Hall. The Corsairs at The Grapes. The Singing Herdsman at The Pilot.

The Chaos Brothers at The Talbot, Calne.

The Monkey Dolls at the Lamb, Marlborough.

The Exact Opposite at the Pump, Trowbridge. 

The Idle Silence, Cult Python, & Otterman at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Fire & Rain & American Pie at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Stockers Street Food Festival at The Hop, Swindon. The Daybreakers at the Vic.

The Good Old Fashioned Lover Boys at Tuckers Grave Inn, Faulkland.

The JB Conspiracy at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury. 

Top Secret – The Magic of Science at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Mother Vulture at The Tree House.

Sunday 14th

CSF Wrestling at the Corn Exchange, Devizes.  Jon Amor Trio Special with guest Stevie Watts at The Southgate.

Open Mic at Red Lion, Lacock.

Deadlight Dance’s The Wiltshire Gothic Album Launch at The Blue Boar, Aldbourne. Album reviewed HERE.

Murder Trial Tonight at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Barney & Kelly at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Monday 15th

Macbeth at Swindon Arts Centre, also runs on Tuesday.

Tuesday 16th

The Lost Trades at The Piggybank, Calne.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe event for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon, A celebration of Herbie Hancock, with Tom Berge.

Poetika at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

And, while we’re planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a look at the coming month HERE.  

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week, One Love.

Trending…..

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 3rd – 9th April 2024

First week of April, there’s no fooling you, here’s what we’ve found to do…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. 

Wednesday 3rd

Crafty Kids in Hillworth Park, Devizes. RAF Cadets’ Easter Egg Hunt continues across Devizes until 14th April. Easter Bouncy Castle Kingdom on the Green until 5th April. 

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer in Wiltshire – Free Talk at Melksham Library.

Screening of The Royal Opera Madama Butterfly at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Simon Munnery’s Jerusalem at Swindon Arts Centre.

Thursday 4th

There’s Easter themed holiday activities at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Rum & Records at the Muck & Dunder, Devizes.

Andrew Hurst is at St Nicholas Church, Bromham.

Hooch at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Subhumans at the Vic. Griff Rhys Jones: The Cat’s Pyjamas at Swindon Arts Centre. The Illegal Eagles at The Wyvern Theatre.

Salisbury Open Mic at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Plumhall at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 5th

Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club, Devizes.

Teenage Halloween, Start The Sirens and Trashed at The Pump, Trowbridge. Open Mic at Newtown Social Club. 

12 Bars Later at The 3 Brewers, Corsham.

The Forgetting Curve & Little Villains at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Kammerphilharmonie Europa at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Swindon Old Town Comedy Club at Christ Church. Black Parade at the Vic. Phil Ellis’ Excellent Comedy Show at Swindon Arts Centre. King of Pop starring Navi and Jennifer Batten at The Wyvern Theatre.

Martin Carthy at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Norman Jay’s Norman Soul at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 6th

Jamie Williams

Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective at The Southgate, Devizes. The Clones at The Three Crowns. SIX: The Musical – Teen Edition at the Corn Exchange. Back to the 80s party night at the Bear Hotel.

Mick Jogger & the Stones Experience at Seend Community Centre.

Siren at The Pilot, Melksham.

John Hackett Band at the Pump, Trowbridge.

Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Desperate Measures, The Setbacks & Death Traps at the Three Horseshoes.

John Otway & Wild Willy Barrett at The Merlin Theatre, Bath.

The Beatles Complete Tribute Show at the Athenaeum Centre, Warminster.

Gaz Brookfield is in the Tent, at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

41 Fords at Tucker’s Grave Inn, Faulkland.

Motley Crude at the Vic, Swindon. Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre. Northern Live – Do I Love You at The Wyvern Theatre.

A Band Called Malice at The Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 7th

Jim Blair at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Open Mic at The Red Lion, Lacock.

Little Wander Presents…Ria Lina at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The Ben Fletcher Band at the Three Horseshoes. 

Dreamboys at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 8th

And then There Were None opens at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until Saturday.

Tuesday 9th

Fish n Chip Supper & Quiz Night in aid of RNLA at Devizes Conservative Club.

Café Concert at St Andrew’s Chippenham.

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe, a Celebration of Wes Montgomery with Nigel Price at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

And, while we’re planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a look at the coming month HERE.  

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Trending…..

A View to a Thrill

“The Thrill of Love” at the Wharf Theatre by Ian Diddamsimages by Chris Watkins Media Just over a year ago, the Wharf theatre performed a…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 27th March – 2nd April 2024

The first Kamikaze moth of the year dive-bombed my face the other morning. Forget blossoming trees and tulips, that’s a milkman’s sure sign of spring…because we wear a headtorch, you see? Oh, never mind, what do you care?! You just want me to tell you what’s happening over the eggtastic week in the wilds of Wiltshire; suppose so, if I must! Happy Easter one and all!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. 

Wednesday 27th

Last day to catch Vowvas film screening at Parnella House, Devizes, see poster for details.

Devizes Books Presents…The Island Continent; A trip through the history and culture of Australia at Wiltshire Museum. From the achievements of early Aboriginal tribes, through visits from European explorers, the inhabitants of the Red Centre and finally to the work of Australian imports to this country, they celebrate all that is great about the Antipodean life and culture. With contributions from Thomas Keneally, Nevil Shute, Clive James, Germaine Greer and Billy Connolly. An evening devised and introduced by Lewis Cowen. 7pm for 7.30pm. Tickets, £6, includes a glass of wine or soft drink and nibbles. Tickets available from Devizes Books cash only please. Or book by phoning 01380 725944 and pay cash on the door.

The regular Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. And Acoustic Jam at the Southgate. 

Opening night of Editor’s Pick of Week, Devizes Musical Theatre brings Sister Act to Daunsty’s School in West Lavington.

Siân Dicker: Walton’s Songbook and Aly Bain & Phil Cunningham, both at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Rondo Variety Show at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Bethlehem Casuals at The Bell, Bath.

Buzzard Buzzard Buzzard at The Tree House, Frome.

Thursday 28th

Starting Thursday and running all weekend, Wadworth have open days at the Wadworth Brewery & Tap Shop, Devizes, promising a “We’ll Meet Again Big Weekend.”

Regular PSG Choir workshop at King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Stuart Rolfe and Becky Lawrence at The Old Bell, Warminster.

Robert Brown at The Beehive, Swindon. Flo Parker Bombosch & Sienna Wileman at The Tuppenny. And it’s Vic Fest 2024 at the Vic, celebrating its tenth year, music all Easter “Band” Holiday Weekend: eggs opening at 7:30pm with Chasing Dolls, Ritual Divide, Kotonic, Trashed and Falls On Deaf Ears.

Luisa Omielan’s Bitter at Swindon Arts Centre, and The Best Of Queen at the Wyvern.

Friday 29th

Easter Bunny Hunt across Devizes by the Devizes RAF Cadets, all weekend.

People Like Us at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Some reggae and soca with David Brewster at the Bear, Marlborough.

Future Sound of Trowbridge #7 at the Pump, Trowbridge with Nothing Rhymes With Orange, SOAK and Feedback. Junkyard Dogs at The Red Admiral, Trowbridge.

Marty’s Fake Family at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Regular Music event at the Cause Cafe in Chippenham.

Iain Ballamy’s Fascinada at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The Boot Hill All Stars at The Three Horseshoes.

Funkkinsteins at The Beehive, Swindon. The Chaos Brothers at The Ashford Road Centre. A Country Night in Nashville at the Wyvern. Vic Fest continues at the Vic, with Truck, Nervendings, Men In Vests, The Belladonna Treatment and Fluff.

Tool Shed: A Tribute to Tool at The Tree House, Frome. General Levy at the Cheese & Grain – amazing, and it doesn’t look sold out yet!

Saturday 30th

Melksham Lions Easter Egg Hunt.

Tom Davis & The Bluebirds at The Southgate, Devizes. Funked Up at the Pelican.

Nick Harper’s Tempus Fugitive tour at St Peter’s, Marlborough. Barrelhouse at The Lamb. And a reggae party with Razah-Hi-Fi at the Royal Oak.

Josh Kumra at the Barge, HoneyStreet.

The Unpredictables at The Bell, Great Cheverell.

Brad Stevens at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

The Lost Trades at The Pump, Trowbridge, sold out I’m afraid. Be Like Will at the West Wilts Con Club in Trowbridge. Miss Bridy & The Two Notes at Gloucester Road Conservative Club. The Ultimate Retro Disco Party at the Civic.

Be Like Will

The Buttmonkeys at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. The Mix at St Margaret’s Hall.

The Blue Moon Band at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

The Jukebox Graduates at The Swiss Chalet, Swindon. SGO at The Beehive. The Chaos Brothers at The Ashford Road Club. Awakening Savannah at The Woodlands Edge.

Marquee Square Heroes at Swindon Arts Centre. Bowie Live at the Wyvern. And Vic Fest at the Vic has Modern Evils, Life In Mono, Bluntnose, Sebastian & Me, Nothing Rhymes With Orange and Colour of Bone.

Reuben’s Daughters at the New Inn, Bath.

Junkyard Dogs at The Sun, Frome. The Wurzels at the Cheese & Grain. Viva Morrissey at The Tree House. 

Junkyard Dogs

Sunday 31st

Scrambled Eggs Easter Hunt at Hillworth Park, Devizes. Illingworth at The Three Crowns. Adam Woodhouse’s Thieves at The Southgate, highly recommended if you like your Americana.

Thieves

Open Mic at the Red Lion, Lacock.

Junkyard Dogs at Calne Liberal Club.

Rob Clamp at The Barge, HoneyStreet.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Sunday at Vic Fest, Swindon sees Kid Klumsy, Visceral Noise Department, AnyMinuteNo, Mr Badaxe, Rebel Station, Disruptive Influence, Bear Noir and Dangermind, from 5:30pm.

James Hollingworth at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Authentics at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

Moonlit Poachers with Jake Puntis at the Long Room in Box.

Carmina 3 at The Bell, Bath, and a Palestine fundraiser with DJs Goodgroove, JayCee, and others, see poster. 

Monday 1st April

Canal & River Trust’s Let’s Walk through Caen Hill & Jubilee Wood. South Western at The Three Crowns, Devizesfrom 3pm-5pm.

Junkyard Dogs at The Red Lion, Lacock.

Tuesday 2nd

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe presents at Celebration of Stan Getz with Terry Quninney, for Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some technical gubbings to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

And, while we’re on about planning ahead, April is hotting up, believe me, loads of good, good, even gooder stuff and stuff gooder than them! Have a gander at the coming month HERE.  

I would recommend Andrew Hurst at St Nicholas Church in Bromham Thursday 4th, Brian Poole at Long Street Blues Club Friday 5th, Mick Jogger at Seend Community Hall on Saturday 6th and the John Hackett Band at the Pump, or Cara Dillon at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Following week, you can find And Then There Were None opening at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes Monday 8th, and the Marley Experience on 13th April at Devizes Corn Exchange; unmissable. 

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by FB messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Tell Us About Your Event

Please make sure we’ve not already picked it up and listed it before submitting, it saves me a lot of time; thank you!

Big up the Easter weekend, remember Easter is a time for celebrating the coming of spring, the beauty it encompasses, and the bringing of new life to the world…. by all means cover yourself in melted chocolate and ask your partner to get licking, but unless you’re prepared for all the gubbings bringing a new life into the world personally presents, be sensible and pop a Johnny on it! Filth, I know, but only the headstrong read this far!!

Trending….

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th – 19th March 2024

Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there’s lots to get through! And I’ve not had time to run off a weekly podcast, though the thought was, cos I like doing them, but ain’t nobody listening to them…. probably must be my jokes putting them off! I can understand that!

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….

Wednesday 13th

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate.

Runny Snotts Open Mic at the Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Los Gusanos at The Bell, Bath. And running until 16th March, Rent at the Rondo Theatre.

Big Jam Session at The Vic, Swindon. Memory Cinema – Peter Pan at Swindon Arts Centre.

Junior Voice Festival – Songs From Our Song Book at the Wyvern.

Thursday 14th

Make your own Easter Egg Masterclass at HollyChocs, Poulshot.

Fantasy Radio live Lounge at the Pelican, Devizes: Jambon Chapeau.

Comedy Loft at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Ruby Darbyshire at The Old Bell, Warminster.

PSG Choir workshop at the King Alfred Hall, Chippenham.

Foregate Brothers at The Beehive, Swindon. Alex Taylor at The Tuppenny. Jeff Woodhouse Medium at Swindon Arts Centre.

Howlin’ Ric & the Rocketeers at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 15th

The What 4’s at The Black Horse, Cherhill.

The Groom’s House Party at The Town Hall, Devizes.

Tom Davis & the Bluebirds at The Barge, HoneyStreet. Trash Panda at the Cooper’s, Pewsey.

The Soul Strutters at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Be Like Will at The White Hart, Atworth.

Richard Wileman & Amy Fry, Phil Mercy’s Blind Convergence at Baristocats, Swindon. Jon Amor Trio at The Beehive. Penfold at The Vic. Cirque – The Greatest Show at the Wyvern.

Sam Kelly’s Station House at Chapel Arts, Bath. Beatsenders Episode 3 at Nowhere.

Nine Below Zero at The Tree House, Frome. Limehouse Lizzy at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 16th

CUDS; Let’s Clean Up Devizes, on the Green. Wiltshire Air Ambulance Free Valuation Day at The Corn Exchange, Devizes. The Starlight Concert Series with the Full-Tone Orchestra at St Andrews. The Tricks at The Three Crowns. Lightnin’ Hobos at the Southgate. Devizes Rugby Club has the ladies v Amesbury, 2nds V Amesbury, screening of Six Nations and Six O’Clock Circus in the evening.

Charity Event in Aid of Dorthey House at St Nicholas Church, Bromham.

The Blue Moon Band at Woodborough Social Club.

Josh Kumra at The Bear, Marlborough.

Start the Sirens at The Grapes, Melksham.

Beetlehead at the Pump, Trowbridge with Charmtype in support.

The Gesualdo Six: The Wishing Tree at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Asha McCarthy at The Manu Centre. Radiation Sickness at The Three Horseshoes.

The Honky Tonks at Tucker’s Inn, Faulkland.

Alan West & Friends at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Depeche Mode tribute, Enjoy the Silence at The Vic, Swindon. Tundra at The Woodlands Edge. Cirque – The Greatest Show at the Wyvern.

Livewire AC/DC at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 17th

Craft Fair at West Lavington Village Hall 10-4pm

March Sighthound Stroll, Devizes: Meeting at the car park right at the top of the road leading to Caen Hill Locks and Cafe. £3 parking fee applies.

Stones Throw at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Howlin’ Matt at the Southgate, with a cigar box guitar making workshop beforehand.

Pewsey Players at St John’s, Pewsey.

Ruby Darbyshire at The Red Lion, Lacock: 12-2pm.

Bob Bowles at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Schmoozenbergs at The Bell, Bath.

Dom Joly’s Conspiracy Tourist Tour at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monday 18th

Jonah Hitchens at The Bell, Bath

The Mousetrap opens at the Wyvern, Swindon, runs until 23rd March.

Tuesday 19th

Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival Fringe, a Celebartion of Nancy Wilson with Victoria Klewin & Adam Stokes Trio at Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

Poetika (poetry slam) at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, donate to us if you can, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Trending……

The Tap at The Peppermill to Host Open Mic

Two local musicians have joined forces as Nightingale Sounds to host their first Open Mic Night at the new Tap at the Peppermill in Devizes….…

The Wiltshire Gothic; Deadlight Dance

With howling, coarse baritones Nick Fletcher, the main vocalist of Marlborough’s gothic duo, Deadlight Dance chants, “here comes the rain, and I love the rain,…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 21st-27th February 2024

Hey, teacher! Leave those sausage rolls alone. Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, there be lots more than your average sausage roll to get through, yer filthy muckers…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Nothing ongoing on our list, so, let’s jump right into the week….

Wednesday 21st

Green Grub Club at St James, Devizes. Regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate.

Carducci Quartet at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Jessica Fostekew’s Mettle at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Amadou Diagne & Group Yakar at The Bell, Bath.

Lunchtime Recital at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Thursday 22nd

Open Mic at the Crown, Bishop’s Cannings.

Devizes Film Club at the Wharf Theatre, screening Official Competition.

Runny Snot’s Acoustic Sessions at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Fin Taylor at Swindon Arts Centre. Adam Rowe at the Wyvern Theatre. Stone Soup, Modern Evils and Phantom Droid at The Vic. Larkham & Hall at the Beehive. Oxbowlake and Jess Marie at The Tuppenny.

Avalon Comedy Network’s Pierre Novellie, Tessa Coates, Huge Davies and Jake Baker at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Paul Cowley at Chapel Arts, Bath. Cindy Stratton Band Everything Changes album launch at the Rondo Theatre. 

Rob Newman at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 23rd

Devizes Ghost Walk: with John Girvan. White Horse Opera’s Top of the Ops at St Joseph’s School.

Mark Morriss plays the Pump in Trowbridge with Sound Affects in support. Sax Man ‘Shilts’ at the Civic.’

Drink and Draw at 31.Co.Work in Chippenham, opening the fringe February events across the town this weekend. Instant Wit – A quickfire comedy event at The Constitutional Club. Heat 2 of Take the Stage at the Neeld Hall.

That’ll Be The Day at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. The Retro Rock Show at Swindon Arts Centre. The Hamsters from Hell and the Vooz at The Vic. Jay Styles is Michael Jackson at The New Inn. 

Shoun Shoun & Venice Treacle at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Nanny Folio Theatre and The Amazing Bubble Man at Pound Arts, Corsham.

CharmType at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Rock the Tots Family show at Rondo Theatre, Bath. The Jake Leg Jug Band at Chapel Arts.

Eddie & The Hot Rods at The Tree House in Frome. Absolute Bowie – Greatest Hits at The Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 24th

Seed Swap at St Andrew’s, Devizes. Editor’s Pick of Week: Deadlight Dance arrives in Devizes with an instore at Vinyl Realm from 11am, and they play The Southgate in the evening. The Wharf Theatre has The Lonnie Donegan Story. Kennet Gateway Club has the Rockin’ Bandits at Devizes Conservative Club.

@59 at The Lamb, Marlborough.

Wet Franc at The Pilot, Melksham. The Fabulous ’59 Ford at Melksham Rock n Roll Club

Toodles and the Hectic Pity,  Charlie Gillman and Luke De-Sciscio at the Pump, Trowbridge. Adult Panto Alice in Wonderland at the Civic.

The REAL nursery rhymes and songs – toddler to KS1 at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Clare’s Circus at King Alfred Hall. Hidden Canvases – ‘Street Art and the City’ A talk by Doug Gillen at the Platinum Hall. Let’s build LEGO Chippenham! at Wiltshire Swindon History Centre, Chippenham. Rock the Tots: Baby Boogie atThe King Alfred Hall. Toddler Tango at The King Alfred Hall.

Steppin Thru’ Time – Mary Lou Revue at The Yelde Hall, Chippenham. The Rosellys at Rivo Lounge. Daft Laffs – A night of comedy greats at The King Alfred Hall. The Old Road Tavern has a Mega Fringe fest, see poster below.

Louise Farrenc plays Symphony number 3 at Corsham Town Hall. Marty’s Fake Family at The Royal Oak. Shake It Up Theatre presents The Improvised Shakespeare Show at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Holy Popes, Shin Splintz & Big Byrd at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. Adriano Adewale’s Catapluf’s Musical Journey at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Molly’s Chamber at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

Science Museum: The Live Stage Show at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Straighten Out at The Vic. World Music Club at the Beehive. Danny & The Randoms at The Queen’s Tap. 

Glamarama at The Woodland’s Edge. MetSon at the Swiss Chalet.

Martin Rowson’s Giving the Gift of Offence at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Phoenix River Band at Chapel Arts, with Sophie Rose in support.

The Sunbirds at the Tree House, Frome. The Beat featuring Ranking Junior at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 25th

Vince Bell at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Melksham Record Fair at the Assembly Hall.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. Shed-ache Dance Theatre at The Constitutional Club Chippenham. Elvis in Blue Hawaii at the King Alfred Hall.

Bandeoke at Prestbury Sports Club, Warminster.

Schtumm presents DG Solaris & Courting Ghosts at the Long Room in Box. 3 Daft Monkeys Duo at The Bell, Bath.

Garth Marenghi’s Incarcerat at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

CSF Pro Wrestling: Showdown at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 26th

Rock the Tots Family at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Josienne Clarke at Swindon Arts Centre,

Ben Tunnicliffe’s Nowhere Ensemble at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 27th

Valuation Day with Paul Martin at The Athenaeum in Warminster.

Sophie Stockham Quartet at Jazz Knights in the Royal Oak, Swindon. The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars – Soho Songbook at the Wyvern Theatre. Connor Burns at Swindon Arts Centre.

Sam Thomas at The Bell, Bath.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week! 

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 14th – 20th February 2024

Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire, hold onto your hats, let’s lots to get through…..

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Look, if it’s all the same to you, I cannot choose an Editor’s Pick of Week; too much great stuff happening. I’m doing a Chocolate making workshop at HollyChocs in Poulshot on Friday (see here,) then off to see Gaz Brookfield at West Lavington Village Hall, (Preview) which has to be one. Saturday, if you loved Adam & the Ants, you need to get to The Vic, Swindon for Ant Trouble (previous review) and if you love hip hop get down the Pump in Trowbridge for the Scribes (preview) but saying all this, when SGO come to the Southgate, Devizes, which they are on Saturday, it’s always a pleasure (past review.) Huge dilemma, ergo, can I have five Editor’s Picks of the Week this week?!!

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed HERE.

Potterne Pantomime presents Robin Hood at the Potterne Village Hall, running until Saturday. 

Wednesday 14th

Seed Bomb Making at Hillworth Park, Devizes, and the regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate. 

Glad to hear The Charlton Cat at Charlton St Peter has a grand reopening on Wednesday.

Counterfeit Sixties Show at the Neeld, Chippenham. Love Stories in Chippenham, don;t know where, One Chippenham your website seems to be down! 

A lunchtime recital with violinist Madeleine Mitchell at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Sterling Elliott at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ghost The Musical at The Athenaeum, Warminster.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre screens Miss Potter (PG.) The Big Jam Session at The Vic.

Carrie the Musical at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Diddy Sweg at The Bell, Bath.

Thursday 15th

Open Mic nights return to The Cellar Bar, Devizes.

Seend Fawlty Players Presents Aladdin at Seend Community Centre, opening today, running up till Saturday.

Kid Carpet and the Noisy Garden Centre at Pound Arts, Corsham.

B-Sydes, Heartwork & Ed Poole at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Bob Porter Project at the Beehive. The Magic of Terry Pratchett at Swindon Arts Centre. Frankie Boyle’s show opens at the Wyvern Theatre and runs until Saturday.

Bath Bachfest opens and runs until Saturday with lots of concerts across the city.

Friday 16th

Innes Sibun Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. Disney’s Frozen Jr runs at the Wharf Theatre on Friday and Saturday.

Gaz Brookfield plays West Lavington Village Hall.

Ward Thomas at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Collateral with Zac & The New Men at The Vic. Soulphia, new name for Sophia Bovell’s Soul Rebels, plays The Cow in Swindon.

Classic Rock American Highway Show at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Bootleg Blondie at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. Liam Helm & The Hang Ups at The Tree House.

Saturday 17th

The Melksham & Devizes Primary will be in Melksham town centre from 10am-noon.

Sorrel Pitts will be signing copies of her new novel Broken Shadows at Devizes Books. Reviewed HERE. There’s a Devizes Town Hall Ghost Hunt. The Truzzy Boys are at The Three Crowns, and S’GO at The Southgate, reviewed here. Oh, and of course, it’s DOCA’s Festival of Winter Ales.

The Devil’s Prefects Album Launch at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Operation 77 at The Lamb, Marlborough.

The Scribes Boombox reaches the Pump in Trowbridge, preview here.

The George Ward School Reunion Disco Class of the 1970s, at the Spencer Club, Melksham.

Wiltshire Police Band at St Andrew’s Church Chippenham. Valentines Concert in Chippenham, at the Neeld, perhaps? One Chippenham, your website is down.

Gwilym Simcock Trio at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Framed! And Help! I Think I’m a Nationalist! at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Fleetwood Mac & Tom Petty The Legacy Show at Swindon Arts Centre. Apache Cats at Queens Tap. 12 Bars Later at Swiss Chalet. Ant Trouble at The Vic.

Deadlight Dance & Steve Mercy are art Chapter 22 Roots & Records, Bath. Joe Wilkinson 

At the Rondo Theatre. This Flight Tonight – A Tribute to Joni Mitchell at Chapel Arts.

Cover Stories at Salisbury British Legion Hall. The Wiseguys at the Rising Sun, Wimborne.

Even N Song at The Ship, Shipton Bellinger.

Judge Jules is at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 18th

Chantelle Smith is with Richard Wileman & Valve at The Vic, Swindon. Brian Conley at the Wyvern Theatre.

The Woodlanders at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 19th

Buffy Revamped at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Swingle-Tree and Whistling Treason at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 20th

Ian Bateman Quartet plays Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon. Miles Jupp at the Wyvern Theatre.

POETIKA poetry slams at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!   

Trending……

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 7th -13th February 2024

Hey you lovely lot, bit warm for Feb, innit? I wouldn’t do anything too daring, like break out your mankini yet, I expect there will be at least one more wintery blast to come. Here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed HERE.

Wednesday 7th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

There’s a screening of The Royal Ballet Manon at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Whitney; Queen Of The Night at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Peter Knight & John Spiers at Chapel Arts, Bath. Suntou Susso at The Bell.

Thursday 8th

Instalment 6 of the Comedy Loft at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Omid Djalili at Pounds Arts is listed, but sold out, sorry.

The Kahunas at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive. A Memory Move at Swindon Arts Centre, Jody And The Jerms play the evening there.

Josh Pugh’s Existin’ La Vida Loca is at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 9th

All Floyd make a welcome return to The Bell on the Green, Devizes.

The Future Sound of Trowbridge #5 at the Pump, The Sunnies headline, with Ignotis and Cult Python in support.

Counterfeit Sixties Show at the Neeld Hall, Chippenham.

Syd Lawrence Orchestra: Big Band Brass at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Band of Others at the Boathouse.

Wizards of Oz and Black Rose play The Vic, Swindon. Limehouse Lizzy at Swindon Arts Centre. Rave On – The Rise Of Rock And Roll at the Wyvern Theatre.

Ed Tudor Pole at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Alfie Moore at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Martin Harley at Chapel Arts.

Andy C has sold out the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 10th

Music for Meninggitis at Seend Community Hall.

Courting Ghosts have had to cancel the gig at The Southgate, Devizes, find Grizzly Rhys Morgan there instead. Editor’s pick of the week takes us to Long Street Blues Club, where The Errol Linton Band makes a welcomed return. One of my best nights ever at Long Street last time they played, see a review Here. 

The Kast Off Kinks at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Jaz Delorean at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Swingletree in support. And Sound Knowledge hosts Declan McKenna at the Civic.

Cultural Assembly; the Art of the Sustainable and A Family Business at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Purple Fish play Westbury Cons Club.

Max Output at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

The Makings of a Murderer at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Nabil Abdulrashid at Swindon Arts Centre. Nervendings, Toast and Arizona Law at The Vic. Mojo at the Swiss Chalet.

Love is Enough at the Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Wifi Wars at Rondo Theatre, Bath

Billy in the Lowground at The Sun Inn, Frome. Ruzz Guitar’s Blues Revue at the Cheese & Grain…oh yes!

Sunday 11th

March for Palestine at Regent Circus, Swindon at 12pm.

Jon Amor Trio & Guest at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

N’Faly Kouyatéo’s Ré-Génération at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon

Coyote Country at Prestbury Sports Bar, Warminster.

Bill Smarme Rock’n’Roll Trio at the Bell, Bath.

Ukrainian National Opera – Madama Butterfly at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 12th

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Cameron Pierre at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 13th

Potterne Pantomime presents Robin Hood at the Potterne Village Hall, running until Saturday.

Paper Moon Quartet plays Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Maddie Storvold at the Bell, Bath.

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!   

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 31st January -6th February 2024

Hey you, Feb already, here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week. Oh, and accept no substitute, this is the definitive guide to what’s really happening around these parts!!

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed HERE.

The Importance of Being Earnest is currently running until Sunday at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. This is sold out, I’m afraid, reviewed HERE.

Wednesday 31st

Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection of Chippenham Museum.

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

‘Full Circle Part II’ – Phil Beer & Steve Knightley at Chapel Arts, Bath. Tight Lipped Combo at The Bell.

Truck at the Vic, Swindon, with the Belladonna Treatment and Nostomo. Viggo Venn at The Wyvern Theatre.

Thursday 1st Feb

The Tap Opening Night in Devizes.

Pound Arts, Corsham are screening Sherlock Jr. (1924) with live piano score by Meg Morley.

Cousins, Skiddy, Blair, Lynch at the Tuppenny, Swindon. Sebastian & Me, Talk in Code and Mirrored Faces feature at the Vic as part of Live Music Venues Week. Beyond The Barricade at the Wyvern Theatre.

All’s Well That Ends Well at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Nigel Wearne (AUS) at Chapel Arts, with support from Simeon Hammond Dallas.

Open Mic at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Friday 2nd

Devizes Youth Action Group has their first event at the Devizes Corn Exchange. U18’s only, all-teen bands, Shox, Steatopygous, and BellaDonna play, with DJ Flam. Well done for organising, we fully support this initiative, and our own youngest reporter, Flo, will be there to give us the lowdown on it. Karaoke starts up at the Exchange nightclub below for the so-called grownups(!), with Karl Maggs on the wheels of steel. This will be a regular thing, the first Friday of each month. 

Also on upcoming bands, check the first heat of Take The Stage at Chippenham’s Neeld Hall, only costs a fiver entry.

Travis Waltons at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Marty’s Fake Family and The Earth & Me.

One Chord Wonders at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

IVW 2024 Double Bill: Nuala Honan & Stevie Toddler at Pound Arts, Corsham.

All Ears Avow, Death is a Girl, Fluff and Ritual Divide all play the The Vic, Swindon. There’s a Swindon Old Town Comedy Club at Christchurch, Old Town. Calling Planet Earth, Duran Duran tribute at the Wyvern Theatre, Dire Streets at Swindon Arts Centre.

And the In-Cider Festival begins at Weston-Super-Mare! Weston-Super-Mare, Eddie!

Saturday 3rd

The Thomas Atlas Trio takes over from the postponed LeBurn Maddox at The Southgate, Devizes. A darn good replacement, expect some amazing blues. Our trusty duo, Funked up will be at The Three Crowns, guaranteed good night at either. DJ Stevie Mc is in the mix at the Exchange.

Kieran doesn’t know it yet, we’ll see if he reads this religiously, but I’m invited to the Pump by frontman Jamie, so for this reason and for many others, this gets my Editor’s Pick of Week!  

The Worried Men play the Pump, Trowbridge, with FuTuRe PlaN in support; anyone going up from Devizes? I needs me a lift!!

From the European Union Chamber Orchestra, Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon presents Yuzhang Li.

Still Marillion at the Vic, Swindon. Apache Cats the Rat Trap. The Thinking Drinkers at Swindon Arts Centre, and The ELO Show at the Wyvern Theatre.

It’s Duckfest at the Duck in Laverstock, a Salisbury Live Beggar’s Bash thingy.

Phoebe Troup is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dylan tribute The Bob Villains at Tree House Frome Retro Electro at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 4th

All-family bike ride, Kidical Mass, from Hillworth Park, Devizes. Lewis Clark at The Southgate from 5pm.

Chasing Dolls, Lucky Number Seven, Better Heaven, Liddington Hill, and Oui Legionarries at The Vic, Swindon. Whitney Queen of the Night at the Wyvern Theatre. Ania Magliano at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monday 5th

Open Mic at the Lamb, Marlborough.

An Evening With Jasper Fforde at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 6th

Daniel Newberry Trio for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon. An Evening With Jeff Stelling at the Wyvern Theatre.

The Rob Auton Show at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

fOR WEEKLY RECURRING EVENTS CLICK HERE!

And that’s all we’ve got for now, other than some important things to say: Events listed here are subject to change, we are not responsible for cancellations, errors or postponements in anything listed. 

Important note two, events which come to our attention from now on in, will be updated on the Event Calendar and NOT HERE. So, be sure to check in from time to time, use the Event Calendar to find more info on everything listed on here, and for ticket links, etc. Use the Event Calendar to check for updates and planning ahead.

Did we miss you out? Did you tell us about your event? It’s not that we don’t like you, it’s because Devizine uses many sources to collate these listings, and sometimes we miss a few things. Listing your event here is free, but please make it easier for me by messaging or emailing the info, and then, and this is the really important part, make sure I’ve added it and let me know if not!

Have a good week- that’s the last important thingy to say!!   

Trending……

Let’s Clean up Devizes!

You’ve got to love our CUDS, the Clean up Devizes Squad, hardworking volunteers who make the town look tidy and presentable. Here’s your chance to…

Ashes of Memory; New Single From M3G

The fifth single coming out from Chippenham singer-songwriter M3g on Friday, Ashes of Memory, and if I’ve said in the past what separates Meg from…

Never Changing the Rules With Atari Pilot

Swindon’s sonic indie popsters Atari Pilot are a prolific bunch, and have a new single out called The Rules Never Change…. And, they don’t. There’s…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 24th- 30th January 2024

Hey frozen duckling, here’s what’s happening over the coming week in the wilds of Wiltshire……

Everything listed here is on our event calendar; go there for links and more info. It may be updated with even more things to do than listed here, so check in later in the week.

Ongoing until 17th February, two enlightening exhibits at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire, and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Wednesday 24th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Big Jam session at the Vic in Swindon. Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit at The Wyvern Theatre.

Apricity Theatre Turns Ten The Rondo, Bath. John E Vistic’s Country Club at The Bell, Bath.

Screening of The Old Oak at the Athenaeum in Warminster.

Thursday 25th

Runny Snotts Acoustic Sessions at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Mark Simmons: Quip of the Mark at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Ellis Evason at the Tuppenny, Swindon, Adult Panto – Beauty And The Big Beast at The Wyvern Theatre.

Andrew Bird’s tour Taken Seriously is at The Rondo, Bath. Gordon Giltrap at Chapel Arts.

The Farewell Tour – An Evening With Sir Geoff Hurst at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 26th

Lucky Number Seven are the Pump, Trowbridge, with LXRDVIRS and Notre Dame of Tokyo. John Law’s Re-Creations at the Civic.

BlueSoul at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

Avalon Comedy Network: Stuart Laws, Lucy Pearman, Heidi Regan & Josh Weller at Pound Arts, Corsham.

This is Your (Improvised) Musical at The Rondo, Bath. Reggae vibes at St James Wine Vaults with the Biggle Sound System. Australia’s Ernest Aines at Chapel Arts.

King Awesome at The Vic, Swindon, Texas Tick Fever at the Beehive. Stranger Sings at The Wyvern Theatre.

Saturday 27th

Phereakers at The Southgate, Devizes, Don’t Frett at The Three Crowns.

Josh Kumra at the Bear, Marlborough. Broken Dolls at the Lamb.

Bo Walton Band at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

A Big shout out to organiser John McConnachie, as Editor’s Pick of the Week is at Calne Liberal Club for the annual 7 Bands in 7 Hours. The Killertones, Real Cheesemakers, Mike & the Misfits, People Like Us, 6 O’clock Circus, Homer and the Chaos Brothers join forces for this fundraiser. This year it’s supporting two young children Hartley, diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome and Fletcher who suffers bowel disorder. The mini-festival comes with a suggested £5 donation, and starts at 4pm. If you can’t make it you can still donate here.

Marty’s Fake Family at Gloucester Club, Trowbridge. Samantics with Devil’s Doorbell at The Pump.

Junkyard Dogs are at The Consti Club in Chippenham.

Shakespeare’s Fool at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Band of Others at Warminster Conservative Club.

Stranger Sings at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. Papa Shango at The Vic with Here Comes The Crows in support. 

Ukrainian Benefit Evening at The Bell, Bath. Ania Magliano’s I Can’t Believe You’ve Done This at The Rondo.

Snuff at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury. Wilton Live all dayer at Wilton Community Hall, see poster. Sam Fraser is at Follow Comedy at Qudos.

Hugh Cornwell and special guests The Primitives at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, Bruce Juice, Bruce Springsteen Tribute at The Tree House.

Sunday 28th

Vince Bell at The Southgate, Devizes.

Screening of The Royal Opera’s Rusalka at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

South West Hotel and Careful Spider play a Schtumm at the Long Rooms in Box. Andy Burden Band at The Bell, Bath.

An Evening with Glenn Hoddle at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 29th

Is the opening night of The Importance of being Earnest at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes. This is running until Feb 3rd, and we will bring you a review of it before it opens; watch this space!

Rock The Tots – ‘The 1990s’ at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Most Haunted Live at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Brooks Williams & Aaron Catlow at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 30th

Stop Making Sense at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Tom Clarke-Hill Quartet plays Jazz Knights The Royal Oak, Swindon. I See Orange at the Vic. Most Haunted Live at The Wyvern Theatre.

Pete Morton at The Bell, Bath.

And that’s your lot! Let me know if we missed anything, we can list events for free, but a chocolate muffin works better to persuade me! Lots to look forward to this month, I’ll lob a few posters below, but keep your best eye on the……

Event Calendar!!

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Peace, Love, Americana and Jol Rose

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th – 19th December 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like…. our weekly roundup of what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this week….. How many sleeps are left? I cheat, I have two sleeps a day, it’s an age thing…..

Please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can this Christmas, please donate a little stocking filler to keep us going; awl, thank you, For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Wednesday 13th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Every second Wednesday of the month, it’s Runny Snotts Open Mic at The Three Crowns, Chippenham.

Lunchtime Recital at Pound Arts, Corsham, Flight of the Firebird with violinist Matthew Taylor and Peter French on piano.

Swindon Arts Centre screens The Muppets Christmas Carol as part of their Memory Cinema, for those suffering dementia.

Winter Wonderband at Chapel Arts. Ya Freshness & The Big Boss Band at the Bell, Bath.

Thursday 14th

Owyado Theatre presents a Twisted Christmas at Seend Community Centre.

Open Mic at The Crown, Bishops Cannings.

Junkyard Dogs at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ben Poole is at The Tree House, Frome, Abba Reunion at the Cheese & Grain.

Friday 15th

Book Launch: Marking Time by Sir Mathew Thorpe at Seend Community Centre.

Carols at the Wharf with Devizes Town Band from 6:30, courtesy of the Kennet & Avon Trust. Ed’s pick of the week, Nothing Rhymes With Orange at The Southgate, Devizes. Devizes Public Living Room Christmas Shindig at the Town Hall.

Alex Mendham and his Orchestra’s Vintage Christmas Party at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Severange @ The Three Horseshoes.

Green Matthews – A Christmas Carol, at Pound Arts, Corsham.

‘Rockin’ & ‘Swingin’ Christmas Evening with Peter Gill & The Good Time Charlies Band at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Diverse Disco, a disco for anyone with disabilities, at Tree Nightclub, Swindon. Cut the Mustard at the Beehive. XSLF at The Vic with Borrowed Time and the Deckchairs in support.

An Intimate Evening With Glen Matlock at The Tree House, Frome. The Jive Aces – “The Not Quite Christmas show” at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 16th

Kenavon Venture Santa Cruise sets sail at Devizes Wharf, and trips are daily until 23rd December. Breakfast with Santa at Devizes Fire Station. Christmas Market at Hillworth Park. The SODs Charity Christmas Gig 2023 at the Town Hall. The Big Sound Christmas Concert at St Johns. The Coco Club Christmas Ball at the Corn Exchange. Christmas Family Ravers at the Exchange. Fullhouse play Frankie Miller at Long Street Blues Club. Phase Rotate at The Southgate. And Sour Apple play The Three Crowns, for Simon’s birthday, happy birthday Simon!

The Vooz play The Lamb, Marlborough.

6 O’clock Circus at The Talbot, Calne.

The Artisan Fundraiser for No7 Creative Space, Chippenham. The West End comes to Chippenham at Christmas at St Pauls. A Christmas Spectacular: Here we come a-carolling at St Andrew’s. 70’s 80’s Disco at The Consti Club.

March for Palestine in Swindon. Swindon Palestine Solidarity (SPS) invites the community to join in a peaceful march on December 16th to call for justice and raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Palestine. Participants will gather at The Lawns entrance on Old Town High Street, on the corner with Charlotte Mews, at 11 am and begin the march at 11:30 am.

Santa’s Christmas Wish opens at Swindon Arts Centre, running until 24th. Apache Cats at the Queen’s Tap. Mark Valentine Band at the Beehive. Bedrock at The Woodlands Edge. The 12 Bands of Christmas at the Vic, see the poster below!

Rock the Tots Christmas Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Franky & The BuzzCatz at The Three Horseshoes.

The Scribes at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Sense Recordings Free Party at The Queen’s Head, Box. The Marching Skaletons at the Bell, Bath.

The Foxes Present…A Cool Yule at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Rhythm Of The 90s & Dave Pearce at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is sold out.

Sunday 17th

Devizes Young Farmers Tractor & Tinsel Christmas Market at the Market Place, Devizes. Andrew Hurst at The White Bear from 5pm.

Santa’s Christmas Wish at the Neeld, Chippenham.

GBH Big Band with Claire MartinIG at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Mark Green’s Blues Band and others from 3am, free admission at the Mount Pleasant Social Club.  

£20K by December 2023 Fundraising Appeal at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Clyve’s Funky Christmas Party at Chapel Arts, Bath. The Blues Mercenaries at the Bell.

Splat the Rat at the Beehive, Swindon.

Cara Dillon – Upon A Winter’s Night at the Cheese & Grain, Frome. A Dannsa Dub at the Tree House.

Monday 18th

Rock The Tots: Christmas at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Messy Carols at the Beehive, Swindon.

Shing-a-Lings at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 19th

Kids Inflatable Christmas Party at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Christmas with Kim Cypher for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon.

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs at Pound Arts, Corsham.

And that’s all I have so far. Saturday 21st is winter solstice, to plan ahead for events over Christmas keep an eye on our event calendar!

Trending…..

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 6th – 12th December 2023

It’s beginning to look a lot like…. our weekly roundup of what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this week….. 

Please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, is wonderful, and runs till Saturday, but tickets are sold out, join the waiting list online, it’s worth it.

 Wednesday 6th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Christmas Afternoon for Over 60s at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Old Town Comedy Loft at the Hop Inn, Swindon.

Thursday 7th

The Real Cheesemakers & Tom Veck at The Tuppenny, Swindon, Lucky Thief play the Vic with Life in Mono and Ritual Divide. Geoff Marsh Panto Caped Avengers at Swindon Arts Centre. 

A Winter Union at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 8th

Fun Quiz Night at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Devizes Public Living Room: has a Singalong with Sian & Rob at Devizes Town Hall, Strange Folk play The Southgate, People Like Us at The Condado Lounge.

Michele Stodart is at the Pump, Trowbridge with DG Solaris in support. Soul Strutters are at the Civic Cafe and Be Like Will at The Red Admiral, Hilperton.

Sons of Town Hall at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Leon McCawley at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, the Boot Hill All Stars Christmas Party at The Three Horseshoes.

The Superskas at Chapel Arts, Bath. The Jon Amor Trio play The Ram.

Riskee & The Ridicule play the Vic, Swindon, with 2 Sick Monkeys and Street Outlaws. The Jake Leg Jug Band at The Queen’s Tap.

TV Smith at the Tree House, Frome, while Complete Madness tribute are at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 9th

Young Curators Club, and the Museum Explorers Club for December at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. A Wreath Making Workshop at The Parish Rooms, on Long Street, Devizes Lions Christmas Fair at The Corn Exchange, from 9am-2:30pm.

White Horse Opera Christmas Concert at St John’s Church, Devizes. SoupChick has a “Show & Sleigh” feast in the Shambles. Black Nasty at the Southgate, James Mitchell at the Three Crowns.

Barrelhouse plays The Lamb, Marlborough, Homer are at The Bear.

The Blunders play the Barge on HoneyStreet with Dissident Noise Factory in support, there’s a Christmas market there during the daytime with Father Christmas and Mad Pete’s Magic.

Legendary local folk band, Stonegallows reunite for a final gig at the Pump, Trowbridge. The 12 Bells offers a more grungy evening with “Terrors From The Deep.” 

The Chaos Brothers play The Talbot, Calne.

Triple JD at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham. A Ratpack Night at The Consti Club. Christmas Show at The Cause.

The 80s vs. 90s Christmas Party at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Wiltshire Jazz Academy’s December concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, also, Martin Cathy and Jon Wilks. Kitchen Lover at the Three Horseshoes.

Attic presents: Learning to Fly by James Rowland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Good Times at The Woodlands Edge, Swindon, Diversify Xmas Special at the Vic.

Untamed Burlesque at Chapel Arts, Bath.

L1nkn P4rk & Foo Fakers at the Tree House, Frome. Jon Gomm & Jo Quail at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 10th

Matchbox Mutiny are at the White Bear, Devizes from 5pm.

The Jon Amor Trio are at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre

Flash Harry @ The Cornerhouse, Frome. Frome record fair at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 11th

Stay at home and watch Courting Ghosts, a live stream courtesy of Visual Radio Arts. Visual Radio Arts: Courting Ghosts Live Stream

Tuesday 12th

Carols and Morris dancers at the Southgate, Devizes.

The Scummy Mummies at the Civic, Trowbridge. 

Ooh, Beehive at the Beehive, Swindon, and Eric Mylod-Okafo Quartet for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak.

Steeleye Span at the Cheese & Grain.

That’s all folks, unless you know different? Drop me a line to tell me what I missed. It’s free to be listed here, but I’m partial to a chocolate cupcake now and then!

Next week is getting really Christmassy, I’ll drop some posters for stuff coming up below, but don’t miss a trick by keeping up with our updating Event Calendar.

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Wormwood; Cracked Machine’s New Album

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 29th November –  5th December 2023

To look around our beautiful landscapes you’d be understanding of visitors who assume it’s a barren outback with nothing going on, but we know different; look and thee shall find. We’ve a packed week ahead as we move into December, the fun never stops! Here’s what we’ve found to do in the wilds of Wiltshire this week….. 

Please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Artist Clifton Powell with his portrait of Eric Walrond, on display at Wiltshire Museum

Wednesday 29th

NHS Blood Donation Clinic at The Corn Exchange in Devizes, between 1:30 and 7pm. The regular acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Roy Chubby Brown is at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Keith James’ Every Human Heart at Swindon Arts Centre.

Piano Phase Project Sound Meditation at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Ushti Baba at The Bell, Bath. Opening at The Rondo Theatre, A Streetcar Named Desire, which runs until Saturday 2nd.

Far From Saints at the Cheese & Grain, Frome is now sold out.

Thursday 30th

Open Mic at The Crown, Aldbourne.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance Christmas Market, Trowbridge. Open Mic at Stallards.

Adele Cliff at Chippenham Comedy Club at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Christmas Memories at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Jam Night at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

FitkinWall: Harpland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Grubb & Eedens at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Chris Difford’s ‘Not Only But Also’ at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Voodoo Room at the Tree House, Frome.

Friday 1st December

Friday sees a Christmas market and Santa’s grotto at The Pelican Inn, Devizes, from 4pm to 9.

It’s the opening night of Jack & The Beanstalk at the Wharf Theatre, running until 9th Dec. You’re going to be hard pushed to grab a seat for this now, but do try Devizes Books or join the online waiting list on their website. We look forward to reviewing this on Thursday. 

Vamos is at the Old Road Tavern, Chippenham, bringing you the fantastic Will Lawton & The Alchemists with Mac-Lloyd in support, this will be one cool gig, highly recommended; please pay what you can for it. Living Spit: A Christmas Carol at the Neeld Hall.

Tribute to Dire Straits, DS:UK at the Melksham Assembly Hall.

Operation 77 at The Talbot, Calne.

My Fair Lady opens at the Civic in Trowbridge, running up to Sunday.

I Fagiolini Angels & Demons at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. The brilliant Monkey Bizzle at the Three Horseshoes with Cara Means Friend.

Chris Difford is at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Alice Armstrong is a Chapel Arts, Bath.

Ed Tudor Pole at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive, Swindon.

Ozric Tentacles & Gong at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, now sold out, but The Specialised are at The Tree House.

Saturday 2nd

Calne River Warriors’ Wreath-Making Workshop at the Pocket Park, Calne.

Christmas Market at Avebury Barn.

Devizes LunaBarge at The Southgate Inn, Devizes. The Unpredictables at the Three Crowns, and the Moonrakers 80s Disco at The Moonrakers, Devizes.

Marlborough Concert Orchestra at St Marys, Marlborough.

Splat the Rat at The Barge Inn, HoneyStreet.

Christmas Light Switch on in Melksham with Plan of Action, on at 5:30pm.

Gary Stringer and Ella Clayton at The Pump in Trowbridge are sold out, and find the 41 Fords at Stallards. 

The Dynamos at the Consti Club in Chippenham.

The Reason at Prestbury Sports Bar, Westbury.

FitkinWall: Harpland at Pound Arts, Corsham.

For Editor’s Pick of the Week we head over to the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon for some African drumming with Kasai Masai in concert, and a drumming workshop beforehand.

Hell Death Fury at the Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon, with support.

Oye Santana at Chapel Arts, Bath, and Junction 18 have a 100th gig fundraiser for Bath Foodbank at St Mark’s Church.

Panto time at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Snow White runs until 31st December. Charlie Baker at Swindon Arts Centre. One Trick Combo at The Woodlands Edge. Operation 77 at The New Inn.

Salisbury Music Awards at The Winchester Gate. 

The Lanky Divas have an album launch at The Sun, Frome. Billy In The Lowground at The Tree House. The Counterfeit Beatles at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 3rd

Chirton School has a wreath making workshop.

The monthly residency of the Jon Amor Trio at The Southgate, Devizes. The Groom Family’s Houseparty at Devizes Town Hall.

Christmas Market at Avebury Barn.

Charity Christmas Fair & Santa’s Grotto at The New Inn, Winterbourne Monkton.

Christmas Fayre & Santa’s Grotto at Chippenham Sports Club.

Really Big Really Clever plays the Pump, Trowbridge with NervEndings in support.

Budapest Cafe Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Mike Hoddinott Trio at The Three Horseshoes.

My Darling Clementine at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 4th

Mark Watson at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 5th

Callum Smith organ Trio, for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, Swindon

And that’s all we’ve got so far, but more stuff is added all the time, so keep a beady eye on 

THE EVENT CALENDAR!!!! And PLAN AHEAD…..

Get your tinsel out and have a great week!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 22nd – 28th November 2023

Everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, right in one handy listing, you know the drill, jump to it, preferably before putting your Christmas tree up, it is, after all, only mid-November; take a chill pill!

Okay, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thank you…

Ongoing: Dark, the latest exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham runs until 26th November.

Two exhibits at Wiltshire Museum in Devizes: Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire. Reviewed Here.

Wednesday 22nd

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre showing Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

Running until Friday 24th Voices for Life Extraordinary at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Kroke at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Clusterfunk at The Bell, Bath. Former ELO 2 Frontman Phil Bates Up Close And Personal Solo UK Tour at Chapel Arts.

Thursday 23rd

Kim Emery at La Bobina, Marlborough.

Dead Man’s Whiskey with  Wicked in support at Underground, Swindon. A Christmas Carol at Swindon Arts Centre, Jake Leg Jug Band at the Beehive. Luna Barge at the Tuppenny.

Entertaining Angels at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Hear my Voice, the LGBTQ+ poetry night at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Passenger Club at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Friday 24th

Continuing into Saturday but the main show is Friday, folks, the DOCA Winter Festival in Devizes is always a wonderful evening. With the lantern parade, light switch on, Devizes Town Band and market, it’s my obvious choice for editor’s pick of the week!

Staying in Devizes, Chicago Blues Trio at Long Street Blues Club, Stones Throw at The Three Crowns, and a lantern parade Karaoke Party at The Pelican.

But it’s Marlborough’s light switch on and market too, and Mean as Custard plays the Bear. 

Writing and Researching a novel with Keith Stuart at Chippenham library, music café at the Cause, and Kate Lomas, with Laissez Faire and others play a fundraiser in support of the new Chippenham Arts Centre, No.7.

Sad Dad Club at Stallards, Trowbridge. Parker plays the Pump, with A Bottle of Dog and Happy Dogs in support. And there’s jazz with the Stilts at the Civic.

Carmen Co at St Michael’s Church, Mere.

Red Light at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, The Remnants at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon.

Running to Saturday, The Bean Spillers’ Improvised Musical at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Sheer Music is at Moles with Pet Needs, the Glitchers and Nothing Rhymes With Orange in support.

Oasish Vs Stereotonics at The Vic in Swindon, Phantom Lymb at the Beehive.

Frome Lantern Parade and Christmas Light Switch on too, with The Members’ “Sound of the Suburbs tour” coming to the Tree House.

Saturday 25th

There’s a lecture at Wiltshire Museum, Devizes called The Hunt for Stourton Castle.  Adam Woodhouse is at The Three Crowns, The Worried Men at The Southgate.

Alex Roberts is at The Barge on HoneyStreet. Trash Panda at The Lamb, Marlborough, 

Static Moves at the Burbage Legion Hall, The Crofton Stokers at the Woodborough Club, 

Billy & Louie at The Crown in Aldbourne, and the Ramsbury Christmas Food and Artisan Market .

The Heart Beats at Melksham Rock n Roll Club. 

Freepeace at The Red Admiral, Trowbridge, Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time tour at the Civic.

Chippenham parkrun at Monkton, Wiltshire College & University Centre Chippenham Campus Open Day also in Chippenham. Chippenham Christmas Market at the Old Road Tavern. Spotlight 3: Modern & Contemporary Art from the Collection of Chippenham Museum, and a Pre-loved Clothes Event at Hardenhuish school. 

The Fairytale Ceilidh: A Fantastical Dance Party at Pound Arts, Corsham, and Carmen Co at Grittleton Village Hall.

Bradford-on-Avon Floating Winter Fair today, with Bath Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre, and Borrowed Time & The Sinictones plays The Three Horseshoes.

Justin Adams & Mauro Durante at The Bell, Bath.

Moon at The Vic in Swindon, the World Music Club at the Beehive. Stephen K Amos at Swindon Arts Centre, Swindon Old Town Comedy Club has a Winter Showcase, Gaz Brookfield is at The Hop, Post 12 at the New Inn, and The Flashback Band hold an 80’s night at The Woodlands Edge.

Craig Charles Funk & Soul House Party has sold out at the Cheese & Grain, so has Depeche Mode tribute The Devout at the Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 26th

James Oliver Band at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Stu Henderson Trio: Jazz at the Horseshoe, Mildenhall, Marlborough.

Melksham Record Fair at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Mark Simmons’ Quip Off The Mark at Swindon Arts Centre.

Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra Concert with Steve Banks at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Ruzz Guitar Trio makes an appearance at The Three Horseshoes.

Schtumm…. presents Sarah McQuaid at The Queen’s Head, Box. The Schmoozenbergs are at The Bell, Bath.

Frome Vegan Fair at The Cheese & Grain.

Monday 27th

David Celia at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 28th

Sarah McQuaid at Swindon Arts Centre, and there’s a bebop blowout for Jazz Knights at the Royal Oak, with special guests Ian Bateman & Alex Clarke, to remember the great Jazz promoter David Knight on what would have been his birthday.

And that’s all we’ve got so far, but more stuff is added all the time, so keep a beady eye on 

THE EVENT CALENDAR!!!!

Have a great week!

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Fashionably late for the party, apologies, the fellow I’m not sure if he minds me calling “the Mike Oldfield of Swindon,” though it’s meant as…

Lego Club at Devizes Library Announced

Everything is looking awesome at Devizes Library as they announce the Lego Club for six to twelve year olds will begin on Saturday 27th January!…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 8th – 14th November 2023

Everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, right in one handy listing, all you gotta do is grab a warm coat….

Okay my little poppies, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thanking you…

Remembrance this weekend, I’ll pop the agenda for Devizes below.

Ongoing, check out the Dark exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham. 

Wednesday 8th

There’s an online talk with Francis Kilvert and tales of Langley Burrell, courtesy of Wiltshire Museum, Devizes. Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes, and its opening night  for the Invitation Theatre group’s Pirates of Penzance at the Corn Exchange, running up to Saturday 11th.

Ad Hoc Theatre: Les Liaisons Dangereuses at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Arman Djikolum and Iyad Sughayer at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Hegemono Quartet at The Bell, Bath, while Bloody Medea!!! Is the play at The Rondo Theatre.

Women In Rock at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Thursday 9th

The Importance of Being Earnest opens at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, and is running until Saturday 11th.

Drag ‘n’ Drop at Rondo Theatre, Bath. Guy Davis at Chapel Arts.

Hannah Rose Platt and Sienna Wileman at the Tuppenny, in Swindon. Mad by Mourning with Abstraction Engine at The Vic, and the Bon Jovi Experience at the Wyvern.

Ruby Wax – I’m not as well as I thought I was, at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 10th

Sour Apple plays the Kings Arms, Hilperton.

Open Mic at the Barge, HoneyStreet from 8pm.

Moroccan evening with guest Chef Peter Vaughan at The Parade Cinema, Marlborough.

Free entry at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Ed Dyke, Becky Lawrence and Rich Onyett; nice one!

Fulltone Festival: Becky Lawrence. Image by Gail Foster

Nota at The Boathouse, Bradford-on-Avon. 7 Crowns and Scene Killers at The Three Horseshoes. Bristol Ensemble at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Moscow Drug Club at Newton Tony Memorial Hall.

Pierre Novellie’s Why Can’t I Just Enjoy Things? at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. George Harrison’s Music, ‘All things must pass’ Duo at Chapel Arts.

Abstract Engine at The Castle, Swindon, Furlined at The Beehive, The Achievers & Greg Brice at The Hop Inn, and Ruby Wax’s I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was, moves onto the Wyvern.

The Bonsai Pirates at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Chris Jagger Band at The Tree House, Frome, Huey Morgan’s 50 Years Of Hip Hop at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 11th

Wiltshire Museum, Devizes opens a double-whammy exhibit, running until the 17th February, Lest We Forget: the Black Contribution to the World Wars in Wiltshire and Eric Walrond: A Caribbean Writer living in Wiltshire, of which I hope to be at the preview evening to bring you news about as soon as.

There is also the monthly Young Curators Club at Wiltshire Museum, and the Museum Explorers Club too.

The Last Post at the Wharf Theatre for one night only, please see our preview HERE.

The fantastic Courting Ghosts make a debut at The Southgate, Devizes. And there’s a last minute booking at the Three Crowns. Blues band The Zac Schulze Gang have a huge national following and have recently moved to Devizes from Kent; let’s welcome them to town!

But my Editor’s Pick of the Week goes to The Muck & Dundar in Devizes who have a dub reggae night with the awesome Omega Nebula. If you’ve been reading our review or seen the posters wrongly listed as the Eskimo Nebula instead, that is because the duo have recently changed their name. Tickets Here.

Static Moves at The Barge, HoneyStreet, The Chao Brothers at The Lamb, Marlborough.

Life in Mono with Ophelia Waiting at the Pump, Trowbridge. Be Like Will at The Kings Arms, Hilperton. Endless Love, The Lionel Richie and Diana Ross Story at the Civic.

The Lollypops & Moptops Show at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Corsham Christmas Market.

Wiltshire Jazz Academy at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, and Sansara Traces of White Rose. Bucky Rage, The Kosher Pickles, and the Reverse Cowgirls at The Three Horseshoes.

Room 101 at The Castle, Swindon, Sons of Liberty at Underground, Cydonia Knights at The Vic, Rich Hall’s Shot From Cannons at the Wyvern.

Jon Amor Trio at the Royal Oak, Bath. A Life in the Theatre at The Rondo Theatre, Martha Tilston with support from Nathan Ball at Chapel Arts.

Amy Winehouse tribute at the Tree House, Frome, Oas-is at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 12th

The Museum of Marvellous Things at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Frankie & The Buzzcats at the Three Horseshoes.

The White Top Mountain Band at The Bell, Bath.

Sensational 60’s Experience at the Wyvern, Swindon, Juliette Burton at Swindon Arts Centre and Dirty Sound Magnet at The Vic.

Frome Chocolate Fair at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 13th

Kirris Riviere Blues Band at The Bell, Bath.

That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Tuesday 14th

Filskit Theatre: Wonder Gigs (Weather) at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Wyvern, Swindon.

That’s all got this minute, but more will be added, I’m sure, to the event calendar as the week goes on. Didn’t see your event here, maybe you didn’t tell us about it, and if you did, my apologies, do give me a nudge, or a Cadbury’s Fudge and I’ll make sure it’s amended; have a groovy kind of love week!

Trending……

Rootless; New Single Ushti Baba

Bristol’s fine purveyors of idiosyncratic folk-raving, Ushti Baba, who if you’re in Devizes you might recall played Street Festival in 2022, have a new single…..…

Timeslips; New Single from Sienna Wileman

With an album review in the pipeline for Dad which includes vocals from Sienna, our Swindon princess of melancholic poignancy has a new single, Timeslips…..…

Gazelles: Follow-up Album from Billy Green 3

Our favourite loud Brit-popping local Geordie and gang are back with a second album. They’re calling it Gazelles, after the previously released single opener Endless…

The Magic Teapot Gathering

Okay, so there must be a truckload of local social and political ranting to cover, but it’s new year’s day, I’m going to waffle about…

Devizine Review of 2023

Here we are again with another year under our belts and me trying to best sum it up without restraint; I reserve my right to…

New Single from Billy in the Lowground

The third single from Billy in the Lowground in as many months was released today, they’ve been ploughing their own furrow since 1991, been meaning…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 25th – 31st October 2023

Boo! We’ve got everything to do in Wiltshire this coming week, leading us into Halloween and the end of the month…..as we always do….boo! It’s that time of year when I get repetitive strain injury from typing “Halloween Party!”

Okay my little pumpkins, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in regularly. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thanking you…

Happy Jack is running at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes, until Saturday, we’ve a review of it HERE.

Wednesday 25th

Devizes in Bloom invites you to plant a bulb for Christmas, at Hillworth Park. Don’t forget the regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Music for Miniatures has a Bubble Bach at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Changing Times: The Impact of Total War in Wiltshire and its effects Post-War, 1939-1955, with Julie Davis at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Memory Cinema, films designed in a setting suitable for those with dementia, are showing High Anxiety (PG) at Swindon Arts Centre, while there’s a Quiz Night at The Castle.

Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells and Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon are reenacted at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, and the Sun Kings play The Bell.

Thursday 26th

Those wonderful River Warriors of Calne invite families to the Pocket Park for half term autumn activities. There’s also a Demonstration of Mediumship at Calne Town Hall.

The Brewery Inn, Seend start their Halloween Haunted Garden, which runs until 31st October, which is Halloween…Boo!

 Open Mic at Stallard’s, Trowbridge. Open Mic at the Crown, Aldbourne.

Hags: A Magical Extravaganza by Scratchworks at Hullavington Village Hall, and Luke Wright’s Silver Jubilee at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Spontaneous Potter at The Wyvern Theatre in Swindon, while Nervendings and Fluff play the Vic. Fran McGillvray & Mike Burke at the Tuppenny. 

Parameter Promotions Presents Lewis Poole Live at The Electric Bar, Bath, and the Rondo Theatre has Butchered.

Friday 27th

Friday sees the opening of a new exhibit at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham, called Dark, and it runs until 26th November.

Devizes Arts Festival Comedy Night at The Corn Exchange, Devizes, and they’re celebrating Dave’s birthday at The Southgate with an ongoing Beer & Cider Festival all weekend with lots of music, no doubt. Halloween Party at the Bridge, Horton.

Trash Panda at The Coopers Arms, Pewsey. Static Moves at The Bear, Marlborough, and Marcus N Kellie Lutener is at The Lamb with a Halloween Party.

A Festival of Remembrance concert at the Civic, Trowbridge, while the Pump another round of The Future Sound of Trowbridge with Mobscure, Ravetank and LXRDVIRS.

Halloween Family Disco at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Abbamania at  Melksham Assembly Hall, Halloween Party at the Pilot.

Hags: A Magical Extravaganza by Scratchworks at Hawkesbury Upton Village Hall.

Highly recommended Siouxsie and the Banshees tribute, Painted Bird at The Vic in Swindon, Sister Sister at North Swindon Club, Bad Good Times at The Queens Tap.

Sean Collins’ Smokin’ Funny at the Rondo theatre, Bath, Josienne Clarke at Chapel Arts.

Bon Giovi at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, Faux Bonamassa at the Tree House.

Saturday 28th

Autumn in the Park at Hillworth Park in Devizes. The Four Sopranos have a CPRE fundraiser at the Town Hall. Susan Santos at Long Street Blues Club. The Southgate’s ongoing Beer & Cider Festival, with music from Red Light and Free Peace. 

The celebrated Halloween Party at The Three Crowns, Puscifer Presents Global Probing Halloween Bash at The Snuff-Box.

Editor’s Pick of the Week!

But, if you’re going to a Halloween party I’m a firm believer you should pick it up as a ska-loween one! Therefore it makes purr-fect sense that the Skaloween at Devizes Scooter Club HQ, the Cavalier should be Editor’s Pick of the Week, with ska band Skamageddon. In case you were wondering, the music is ska, the theme is halloween!!

Dorothy House fundraiser at The Lamb in Urchfont, with Humdinger.

Oktoberfest at Seend Community Centre.

Hooch at The Coopers Arms, Pewsey.

Apache Cats at The Talbot, Calne.

The Monster Ball at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Shivers and Shadows at The Neeld, Chippenham, followed by the Emeralds Boxing event.

The Worried Men at the Pump, Trowbridge, Train to Skaville at The Gloucester Road Conservative Club, Halloween with the Buttmonkies at Stallards, Be Like Will at The Red Admiral.

A mod, northern soul and ska night at The Players in Westbury. Band of Others, with optional Halloween fancy dress at the Cock Inn, Warminster.

Triple JD Band at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford On Avon.

Rachel Fairburn’s Showgirl at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Steven Brinberg’s celebrated tribute to Barbra Streisand, Simply Barbra, is at Chapel Arts.  Siren plays The Devonshire Arms.

The Vintage Bazaar at the Cheese & Grain in the daytime, but with Glenn Hughes sold out, people of Frome need to head for 23 Bath Street for the Frome Fair Fundraiser, a Night of BOO! – Boot Hill All Stars will entertain you.

Jo Caulfield at Swindon Arts Centre. Destination Anywhere has a mod-soul-ska club night at The Vic. Down & Dirty Halloween Party at The Woodland Edge, the amazing SexJazz at The Castle, and Damn at the North Swindon Club.

Sunday 29th

There’s a Haunted Hayride at Poulshot Village Hall; now, that sounds fun!

Devizes Town Band at The Corn Exchange, with Chloe Jordan for an autumn themed concert. Blues at The Southgate, Devizes with Thomas Atlas.

Guinea Lane Saxophone Quartet at the Heritage Centre, Pewsey.

October Jam at The Wheatsheaf, Calne.

There’s a fundraiser for Friends IVF treatment at The Vic, Swindon, with Mirrored Faces, Copper Creek, Thieving Magpies, N/SH, and more. 

Junkyard Dogs play the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

King Dinosaur at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 30th

Rock The Tots: have some Spooky Fun at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Reverend Richard Coles: Borderline National Trinket at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. 

Nightshift at the North Swindon Club.

Mobrasuto at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 31st

Trick or treat! It is Halloween and I know of no Halloween party; we’ve exhausted ourselves already rather than exorcised ourselves!

There are the regular Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon, with the Robert Fowler Quartet, Gigspanner Big Band at Swindon Arts Centre, and Gary Delaney’s Gary In Punderland at The Wyvern Theatre.

Then, Bob’s your dad’s brother it’s November, and though I confess there’s still a lot of updating to do, which I must stop playing online backgammon and get on with, there’s lots to be keeping you out of trouble, so keep an eye on our event calendar for updates for next month. 

Devizine is going out to over 100K local folk and listing your event will remain free, nudge me if you’ve told me and it’s still not listed, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a spooky week!

Trending…..

The Closing of Cooper Tyres

By T.B.D and D Rose for Devizine.The author can be reached at housetyg@gmail.com This month the historic Cooper Tires factory in Melksham which began…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 18th – 24th October 2023

Gliding through October at colossal speed, with temporary bursts of cold spells hinting winter at us, and some, some I repeat, faintly whispering the C word; we’re gathered here today not in anticipation of the yule but to look at what’s going on this coming week and weekend, as we usually do….. 

Okay my little poppets, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in as regular your digestive system after a vindaloo throughout the week, or you might miss something really up your street. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE. Please and thanking you…

Wednesday 18th

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

An Evening With Harry Redknapp at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, Fiona Allen’s On The Run at Swindon Arts Centre.

Monkey Chuckle at the Bell in Bath, and award-winning youth theatre company Merriman Theatre Group presents Six Teen Edition, a full-length adaptation of Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss’ international phenomenon SIX, modified for performance by teen actors for family audiences, opens at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, running until 21st October. 

Wrecking Ball: A Nashville Experience at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Thursday 19th

Kevin Bloody Wilson at The Wyvern Theatre, and Tom Stade’s Natural Born Killer at Swindon Arts Centre. Dark Prophecy and Ritual Divide at The Vic, and Kid Carpet & Grasslands at the Tuppenny, Swindon.

Wildlife photographer Doug Allan’s It’s a Wrap at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 20th

Tom Harris and Pat Ward’s new venture No Alarms & No Devizes at The Barge on HoneyStreet.

Yes, Scouting For Girls are in Marlborough on Friday, thanks to Sound Knowledge, but it sold out like ages ago; you’ve got to be quick on these things! Though you can find the duo Stripped at The Lamb. 

Willow Hill at the Civic Hall, Trowbridge. 

A relaxed and BSL Interpreted performance of The Gruffalo’s Child at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Fleetwood Mac & Tom Petty Legacy at Chapel Arts, Bath. Bluesoul are at the Boathouse in Bradford-on-Avon.

Genesis Visible Touch at the Cheese & Grain, So Toto at The Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 21st

Matchbox Mutiny at The Three Crowns, Devizes, The Will Edmunds Trio at The Southgate, Big Blue This at The Crown.  CSF Pro Wrestling’s Deadly Draw 2023 at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Nothing Rhymes With Orange play The Bell, Great Cheverell.

Editor’s Pick of the Week goes to The Female of the Species, local super-group’s annual outing at Seend Community Centre, this year is for Alzheimer’s Support  and has the theme, the MTV Years, and will be a-maze-zing! Tickets are £12.50 and selling fast, from HERE.

Colin Paul & The Persuaders at Melksham Rock n Roll Club.

It’s also Trowbridge Carnival, and there’s a Pipe & Slippers Rave at the Civic.

Women In Rock at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Rhys James’s Split Milk at Swindon Arts Centre, Matty One Man with The Forgetting Curve and Here Come the Crows at The Vic, 2-ToneAllSkas at The Woodlands Edge, Metaprism, Drallion and Grove Warden at Underground, Homer plays The Bakers Arms, Post 12 at North Swindon Club, and One Trick Combo t the Queen’s Tap.

Ward Knutur Townes Trio at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mini Ravers Lil Monsters Halloween Party at the Cheese & Grain, followed by The Freddie and Queen Experience. Junkyard Dogs play The Sun in Frome.

Sunday 22nd

Manos Puestas at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Sound Knowledge presents Bombay Bicycle Club at St. Peter’s Church, Marlborough.

Sunbirds play The Neeld, Chippenham.

Knives, LagunaGoons, Modern Evils and Viduals at The Vic, Swindon, Legends of American Country at The Wyvern Theatre, Rockabilly Rumble at North Swindon Club.

Jake Leg Jug Band plays the Bell in Bath.

Independent record store Raves from the Grave in Frome have a mega “we’ve run out of space” sale at the Assembly Rooms from 10-3pm with DJs and refreshments.

Monday 23rd

Based on John Godber’s Yorkshire grandparents, and other members of his family, Happy Jack is a memory play, which examines the relationship between Jack and Liz, and opens at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes on Monday, running until October 28th. We hope to bring you a review on this prior to the opening on Monday.

Flibbertigibbet Theatre: Babble at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Hot Club of Avon at the Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 24th

Half Term Tennis Holiday Camp starts at Devizes Tennis Club, running until 26th October.

John Law Re-Creations at Jazz Knights in The Royal Oak, Swindon, Lil’ Jimmy Reed with Bob Hall & Hilary Blythe at Swindon Arts Centre, and La Bamba at The Wyvern Theatre.

Sue Harding is at The Bell, Bath.

That’s all we’ve got for you so far, but remember to keep an eye on our event calendar for updates. I’m delighted to rap stats with you, and announce Devizine is flying over the record-breaking annual hits from last year, and there’s still two and half months to go. Devizine is going out to over 100,000 local folk and listing your event will remain free, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a great week!

Trending…..

Waiting for M3G’s new Single…..

So yeah, I thought I’d be funny by commenting “can’t wait” on Chippenham’s upcoming folk singer-songwriter Meg’s Facebook post announcing her latest single, because, you…

Bradford on Avon Green Man Festival

Featured Image: Colin Rayner Photography If I’ve recently been singing the praises of arts diversity in Bradford-on-Avon, centred around the Wiltshire Music Centre and not…

Viduals Release New Single

Is that ex still playing on your mind? It’s been an age, mate, but no amount of friends’ attempts to console you will help, or…

12 Bars Later Pop into The Badger Set

Must’ve been a sweaty August night last year at our trusty Southgate, when I turned up on the off chance, and staggered home mightily impressed…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 11th – 17th October 2023

Here I am again, like Huey Lewis…..with the news. No national headlines though, no, that’s all too depressing, just the lowdown on things to do this coming week across our gurt lush county of agricultural rolling downs, neolithic monuments, and a seemingly endless succession of Greggs bakeries…..

Okay my little sausage and bean melts, please be aware this is not comprehensive and new events can and might yet still be added to our blossoming, occasionally updating EVENT CALENDAR; they might not be added here, so do check in as regular your digestive system after a vindaloo throughout the week, or you might miss something really up your street. You can also find links to everything mentioned there, and plan ahead.

One other really important thing before we get going, the thing everyone seems to brazenly browse past pretending it didn’t apply to them, we need donations to fund this, so, if you can, please donate a little something to keep us going; awl, thank you. If you love it, don’t lose it, like Bez on a nineties dance floor. For info on how, see HERE.  

Final days to pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE, this ends on October 15th.

Oh, and this above, and this below, clowns, in Chippenham, a must-see!

Wednesday 11th

Regular Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Calne Music & Arts Festival continues. The Avebury Vocal Ensemble, and a Calne Wordfest Writers’ Group at Marden House during the afternoon, and standup comedy with Graham Coulam introducing Paul Ricketts and Steve Gribbin in the evening.

There’s a lunchtime recital at Pound Arts, Corsham with pianist Simeon Walker.

Opening at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon and running until the 15th, Salos Presents Elf, The Musical…too early? Too late! 

Thursday 12th

Calne Music & Arts Festival has The Primary School Choirs in concert at Kingsbury Green Academy Hall, and Calne Speech and Drama School present ‘Sea, the Fool, the Devil and the Cats’ by Ted Hughes at Marden House, followed by some jazz with The Nick Sorensen Trio.

Sean Collins’ Smokin Funny arrives at Swindon Arts Centre, Andy Oliveri & Kizzie at The Tuppenny, Swindon.

Kiki Dee & Carmelo Luggeri’s The Long Ride Home Tour comes to Chapel Arts, Bath.

Friday 13th

Join Devizes OpenDoors’s Big Sleep Out and help raise funds to support homeless and vulnerable adults in our community. You can sleep out at St James’ Church in Devizes, organise your own sleep out at work, at school, even in the garden at home, or pay to stay in bed by making a donation. Find out more and register at devizesopendoors.org.uk

Thud and Adam Woodhouse at the Southgate, Devizes, Mike Zito & Albert Castiglia with Band @ Long Street Blues Club.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has Ukrainian Jazz Harpist Alina Bzhezhinska in Concert at Marden House, followed by The Lost Trades.

Wilts & Berks Canal Trust Quiz Night at The Neeld, Chippenham.

My Octopus Mind plays the Pump in Trowbridge, with The Message in support.

Jazz at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, with Dario Napoli Hot Club. Start the Sirens & Ophella Waiting at The Three Horseshoes. 

An Evening Of Mediumship With Nikki Kitt at Swindon Arts Centre, Soulweaver Reigniting The Fire at Underground, formerly Level III, Bedrock at The Queens Tap, Evanescence of Fire at The Vic.

Rusty Shackle, Ninotchka and Concrete Prairie play Komedia, in Bath, Damien O’Kane & the Ron Block Band are at Chapel Arts. 

Saturday 14th

Marlborough Mop Fair. The Magnitones play St Michael’s in Aldbourne. 

It’s the Lions Arts Coaching Day in Devizes, and a first, I believe, for Danny & The Randoms who play at The Three Crowns, and The Unpredictables, Finely Trusler’s new ensemble play the Moonrakers. The Jack Grace Band is at the Southgate.

Pig Race night at Erlestoke Golf Club! Bring your own ketchup!

Dub roots reggae at The Barge on HoneyStreet with Jah Lion Movement.

Be Like Will play Stallards in Trowbridge.

Editor’s Pick of the Week is Amelia Coburn is at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Ruby Darbyshire and MEG in support.

There’s seven acts playing Hullavington Live at The Village Hall, and it’s free entry.

At Calne Music & Arts Festival, “Flowers in art from Botticelli to Hockney,” a talk by Gail Brown followed by ‘Meet the Artists’ with Cathy and Nick Pearce and ‘HMS Pinafore’ – presented by Opera Anywhere. 

Taylor Swift tribute Katy Ellis at The Pewsham, Chippenham.

Back to the eighties party night at Spencer’s Club, Melksham.

I’ve Every Whitney at Kingsdown Golf Club, Corsham.

Brodsky Quartet 50th Anniversary of the Shostakovich Cycle at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Dreamwave at The Three Horseshoes.

Happy Dogs at HMV Bath at 3pm.

Carl Hutchinson – Watch Till The End at Swindon Arts Centre, David Flynn Memorial night at The Vic, Swindon, Concrete Prairie at Rodbourne Cheney Social Club, The BeatRoutes at The Castle, Rockabilly Rumble at The Queens Tap, Homer at the Rolleston, Dimensions at North Swindon Club, Vicky Jackson is PINK at Underground, and Swindon Ska Fest at The Moonrakers.

Sunday 15th

All About The Music Record Fair at Devizes Conservative Club from 10am-4pm.

PSG Choirs are at Marlborough Town Hall for an Autumn Concert. Starts at 6pm, tickets are £8.

Gothic Acoustic Matinee with Deadlight Dance at the Blue Boar, Aldbourne.

Calne Music & Arts Festival has Evensong at St. Mary’s Parish Church, and a Photographic Talk – ‘Arctica’ with Pam and Eddy Lane at Marden House.

Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon have Groove Baby Grooving With Pirates!

Below the Salt at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Waterlines at Underground, Swindon, an Elvis tribute at The Castle, and Damn at the North Swindon Club, and SGO at The Tuppenny.

Monday 16th

Sounds of the 60s Live with Tony Blackburn at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Tuesday 17th

Do You Believe In Ghosts at The Wyvern Theatre, while the Eric Mylod Okafo Quartet take the Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon.

That’s all we’ve got for you so far, but remember to keep an eye on our event calendar for updates. I’m delighted to rap stats with you, and announce this week Devizine has hit level on the record-breaking annual hits from last year, and there’s still two and half months to go. Devizine is going out to over 100,000 local folk and listing your event will remain free, all you have to do to insure it is here is to tell us about it!

Have a great week!

Trending….

Wiltshire Music Centre; Proper Job!

Devizes celebrated rum bar, The Muck & Dundar are hosting a dub reggae night with Omega Nebula on Saturday, and received this week’s prestigious…

Watching the Winter Solstice at Stonehenge or Avebury: How to Prepare

The Winter Solstice at either Stonehenge or Avebury remains one of the most awaited Pagan celebrations of the year, with thousands of visitors gathering to mark the longest night of the year. Attendance levels have risen at Stonehenge since the lifting of restrictions, allowing participants to once again commune with one another and get up close and personal with the sacred stones that have stood their ground for around 5,000 years. Observing the solstices is a deeply traditional practice to mark the passage of time, and one that farmers and ancient dwellers relied on heavily for harvesting and livelihood. Today, the Winter Solstice is celebrated as a day of renewal – and reconnecting with nature and the self…..

During this festive time, members of New Age tribes like the Pagans, Druids, and Wiccans, as well as onlookers, make their respective journeys to the site well before dawn breaks. A massive horn is sounded to mark the beginning of the ceremony, after which numerous rituals take place – be it chanting, singing, or other activities – before everyone watches the sun rise perfectly in between the stones to signify a new year ahead.

Now, unlike the Summer Solstice celebration, where traditional Druid attire may call for a flowing white robe, the weather conditions during the Winter Solstice are naturally very different. To adequately prepare for one of the most magical nights of the year – and to ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout – it’s important to pack the right gear and come properly bundled up for the festivities.

Warm clothes for the cold

Because the Winter Solstice typically occurs on the 21st or 22nd of December, you can expect temperatures to fall in the 0°C to 7°C range, which means warm clothes are an absolute must. Aside from thick outerwear, opt for multiple layers of heat-trapping fabric, such as polyester and merino wool. Wearing several thin layers of clothing instead of a few thick layers may help keep you warmer – the air trapped within each layer will insulate heat better and keep it around your body. Don’t forget a scarf and headwear to top things off. Additionally, there are around eight to fifteen rainy days in the month of December, which means you’ll want to pack adequate rain protection.

Sunglasses for sun protection

This celebration is all about witnessing the magnificent sun, so one would be remiss not to pack some sun protection, especially for your eyes. Part of the celebration involves looking directly at the sun as it rises and sets over the famous stones, and that can pose a risk to eye health. Even if it is cloudy, it doesn’t mean the sun’s rays can’t still cause some damage. A pair of polarised sunglasses are ideal if you want to see the sun rise and set without fear of damaging your eyes. These glasses can block glare from the sun, which can also lead to improved clarity and contrast while offering 100% UVA and UVB protection against the sun’s rays. The Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer Classic features acetate frames, which won’t absorb cold, unlike their metal counterparts, so even if it is bright and still bitterly cold as it can be in the middle of winter, you’ll still be comfortable. Also, during winter celebrations, a handy pair of sunglasses can protect your eyes from harsh, cold winds, so keep them on to minimise eye irritation and ensure your vision is clear for taking that picture-perfect sunrise shot.

Shoes to trudge through mud

Given the rainy season, the grass around Stonehenge can get muddy if it’s rained the night before. A durable pair of wellies will keep your feet snug and protected. The original Muck Boot Forager has foldable rubber, meaning you can adjust it to three different heights depending on weather conditions. The memory foam insole will keep you comfortable, and the outsole provides traction that will keep you from slipping and tripping as you explore the site and touch the stones.

When you’re well-dressed and well-prepared, especially for such a momentous occasion, you can avoid weather-related discomfort, keep from catching a nasty cold, and truly focus on celebrating with those around you. If anything, the thing that will keep you warmest during the Winter Solstice is the company.

Trending….

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 27th September-3rd October 2023

Summer is done and dusted, you’ve got to lower yourself onto the toilet seat that little bit steadier, as we move into autumn. Still, the silver lining is there’s always lots to do locally; here’s what we’ve found coming up this week….

Not comprehensive, as I tell you each time, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week and they come to our attention, so check in on it from time to time. If you don’t let us know about your event you cannot expect it to be here, drop us a line and guarantee it’s listed here, it costs nothing.

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, and any extra will be put into hosting events, something we would like to do more of but without financial support it makes it impossible. Any donations will be kindly accepted, you will get special attention, and we thank you. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE, this ends on October 1st.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour.

Clown Soup exhibit by Si Griffiths at the Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham. 

Devizes Food & Drink Festival is up and running, until 1st October.

Wednesday 27th

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Subject A at The Bell, Bath.

ZambaLando at “Moose Hall” Old Town, Swindon, Lunchtime Recital at The Wyvern Theatre, with Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time in the evening.

Thursday 28th

Devizes Film Club Presents Lunana at The Wharf Theatre, and there’s a Murder Mystery Dinner at The Corn Exchange.

Marlborough Literature Festival opens, running until 1st October.

The Unravelling Wilburys at Melksham Assembly Hall.

The Last Baguette’s Playtime! at Pound Arts in Corsham, with the The Jackie Oates Trio in the evening.

Zambalando plays Savernake Street Hall, Swindon, Guy Tortora at The Tuppenny, Cooper Creek at The Beehive. Big Drink, One Man Boycott, Liddington Hill and the Starkers at The Vic. Magic Of Motown at The Wyvern Theatre, and the Phoenix Players – ‘I Thought I Heard A Rustling’ at Swindon Arts Centre, running until Saturday 30th.

Ed Byrne’s Tragedy Plus Time goes to the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 29th

The Unpredictables are at The Churchill Arms in West Lavington.

Autumn Beer Festival at The Bell, Lacock.

Open Mic at Marlborough Town FC. El Toro at The Bear, Marlborough.

Sice Boo from The Boo Radleys’ ‘The Secret of Happiness’ at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Martin Kemp’s Back to the 80s at The Civic.

There’s a 24 hour Danceathon at Cumberwell Park Golf Club in Bradford-on-Avon, for the Fearless charity.

The Unravelling Wilburys at The Athenæum, Warminster.

Diverse Disco, a party for disabled and learning difficulties, at The Tree, Swindon. The Britpop Band at the Vic, The Heretic Order and The Self Titled at Swindon Underground (formerly Level III,) Devizes Road Oktoberfest at the Tuppeny in Swindon continues all weekend. Echo at the Queen’s Tap. Tea & Tour of the Spotlight Room at Wyvern Theatre, followed by Babatunde Aleshe’s Babahood.

LGBTQ+ poetry night, Hear my Voice at Rondo Theatre, Bath, The Alter Eagles at Chapel Arts. 

The Tom Petty Legacy at the Tree House, Frome, with Graham Parker & the Goldtops at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 30th

Leburn Maddox at The Southgate, Devizes, Illingworth at The Three Crowns, Strange Folk at The Lamb.

There’s also a grand lineup at The Crown, Bishops Cannings, with music from 4pm, Steve Morano Band, Talk in Code and Purple Fish. they’ve a fire-dancer between the acts, BBQ and pizza, free entry, splendid pub, twist my arm, why don’t you?!

There’s the Hillbillies at the Barge on HoneyStreet, and The Monkey Dolls at The Lamb, Marlborough.The Monkey Dolls @ The Lamb, Marlboroug

Josh Kumra @ The Bear, Marlborough

Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats play an Alzheimer’s Support fundraiser at The Spencers Club in Melksham. Seriously Collins at The Melksham Assembly Hall.

Truckstop Honeymoon at the Pump in Trowbridge, with Swingletree in support, The Jon Amor Trio at The Red Admiral, Hilperton. Scout Killers at the Civic and Be Like Will at The Greyhound.

Ultimate Meatloaf at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Six O’clock Circus at Calne Liberal Club.

Sarah-Louise Young: The Silent Treatment at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Lone Sharks at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. And a Bradford Roots Sessions evening at the Wiltshire Music Centre, with Concrete Prairie, Courting Ghosts, and Fly Yeti Fly, proper job, ed’s pick of the week that one right there be, oo-argh!

The Spooky Kids and Korn Again at The Vic, Swindon, Tundra at The Woodlands Edge, And Solo at North Swindon Club, Click at The New Inn, Hush at The Queens Tap, and Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare – Much Ado About Nothing at The Wyvern Theatre.

Celebrate Zappa : Treacherous Cretins at The Tree House, Frome, Motörheadache at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 1st

Monthly residency for the Jon Amor Trio at The Southgate, Devizes, with guest Ruth Hammond.

Fireman Sam is at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and Victorius at Underground.

Interstate Express at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 2nd

Ope

Billy Billingham MBE – Always A Little Further at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Orfic at The Bell, Bath

Tuesday 3rd

Calne Music & Arts Festival starts with the Nonpareil, a Local Photography Group Exhibition. It runs across the festival until 28th October, at the Heritage Centre, Calne. Open 10:00 – 16:00 Tuesdays to Saturdays (closed Sundays & Mondays) Visit the Heritage Centre to see the exhibition of photography by “Nonpareil”, a small group of very experienced local photographers. It includes Award Winning Images from their Exhibitions and Salons that have been exhibited around the country. The festival lineup is in full on our event calendar.

100 Years of Silents: Our Hospitality (1923) with live musical score, at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Queenz – The Show With Balls! at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, with 

The Haunting at  Swindon Arts Centre.

That’s all folks, but there are lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide. Have a great week whatever you do do!

And hey, we’re doing a monthly podcast again now; a bit of fun and some great local music on there, please take a listen…. at your own risk!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 20th -26th September 2023

With the last minute heatwave looking as if it’s packing its bags, we move into autumn still with lots to do locally, the silver lining of the clouds above…..  

Not comprehensive, as I tell you each time, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week and they come to our attention, so check in on it from time to time. If you don’t let us know about your event you cannot expect it to be here, drop us a line and guarantee it’s listed here, it costs nothing.

Please, if you can donate a little something to keep us going, do, that’s all I ask. We need to fund this, and any extra will be put into hosting events, something we would like to do more of but without financial support it makes it impossible. Any donations will be kindly accepted, you will get special attention, and we thank you. For info on how, see HERE.  

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

New exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival, Chippenham, Si Griffiths obsession with clowns…..

Wednesday 20th:

Ah, the regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre, for those suffering dementia and their carers, what a wonderful idea, this sessions they’re screening Labyrinth (U.) Absolutely Dragulous at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Women Who Give No F*cks at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, while Azhaar & Global Wave at The Bell.

Thursday 21st:

Superfirends play the Pump, Trowbridge with Beetlehead in support.

Andalusian guitarist/composer Juan Martín at Chapel Arts in Bath, while Fiona ALen’s On the Run is at the Rondo Theatre.

Pete Firman’s TrikTok st Swindon Arts Centre, and running Thursday to Friday at The Wyvern Theatre, Splash Test Dummies.

Friday 22nd:

That time again for the Marlborough Mop Fair.

Funked Up play The Pelican, Devizes.

Talk in Code appears at The Three Horseshoes Bradford-on-Avon, with Nothing Rhymes With Orange in support.

Richard Durrant at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Ex-Wishbone Ash’s Martin Turner is at Chapel Arts, Bath , an Evening With Martin Stephenson at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Peter & The Test Tube Babies at The Vic, Swindon with Slagerij. Ska’D For Life at the North Swindon Club, To Sleep at Swindon Arts Centre.

Lump play The George & Dragon, Salisbury.

Crazy Arm are at the Tree House, Frome, with Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 23rd:

Marlborough Mop Fair again. And an Open Mic at the Parade Cinema from 6-8pm

Heddington Scarecrow Trail: continues Sunday too!

St John’s Charity Michealmas Fair at Devizes Corn Exchange, and the Devizes Food & Drink Festival begins, running until 1st October.

The Hoodoos at The Southgate, Devizes.

Junkyard Dogs at the Cock Inn, Warminster.

Hell Death Fury at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon

CarmenCo at Langford Parish Hall, and Owen Spafford & Louis Campbell at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Diversify at The Vic, Swindon, Operation 77 at The Woodland’s Edge, Take It Easy – The American Classic Rock Show at Swindon Arts Centre.

The Radio Makers have an inStore at HMV Bath.

Slagerij headlines a ska-punk fest at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury.

Strange Folk at The Sun Inn, Frome, Cats In Space at the Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 24th:

Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Melksham Ladies RFC V Devizes Ladies RFC at Melksham Rugby Club.

Open Mic at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Junkyard Dogs at Stallards, Trowbridge.

James Hollingworth at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Dr Zebo’s Wheezy Club at The Bell, Bath.

The Replays at North Swindon Club.

CSF Pro Wrestling: Showdown at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. 

Monday 25th:

Rock The Tots: Food, Glorious Food at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Electio, a new play from local playwright Peter Hynds at The Vic, Swindon. Supreme Queen at The Wyvern Theatre, continues on Tuesday.

The Malbec Orquesta at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 26th:

Quentin Collins & Tom Berge Trio at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon while Jen Brister’s The Optimist is at The Wyvern Theatre.

Ian Perry at The Bell, Bath.

That’s all folks, but there are lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide. Have a great week whatever you do do!

Trending….

Snakebite Tune From The Dirty Smooth

Snotty nose, change of weather, otherwise I’d have dragged my sorry ass down to Underground, formerly Level III in Swindon for last weekend’s Children in…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 6th – 12th September 2023

Schools are back, summer has finally arrived, here’s what we’ve got this coming week……

Not comprehensive, more will be added to our event calendar as we move through the week, so check in on it from time to time.

Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Wednesday 6th.

The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Ruby Darbyshire at The George, Lacock.

ShakShak at The Bell, Bath.

Thursday 7th.

Priscilla, Queen of the Disaster at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Robyn Hitchcock at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

InAir and Kotonic at The Vic, Swindon.

Gavin Osborn is at The Tuppenny, Swindon with Meg in support.

The Serial Killer Next Door with Emma Kenny at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Friday 8th.

Burbage & Easton Royal Cricket Club has a beer and cider festival  with Kova Me Bad and The Zoots.

Goatfest opens at Goatacre, Calne.

Lewis Poole plays the Pump in Trowbridge with Start The Sirens and Work Experince.

Peloton at The Vic, Swindon.

The Wonder of Stevie at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

The Tannahill Weavers at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Grace Petrie’s Butch Ado About Nothing is at the Rondo Theatre, Bath

Shindiggers have a Shimmy Discotheque at Club Lomah, Bath.

Lou Cox’s celebrated Having A Baby – The Sh!t They Don’t Tell You In Books comes to the Frome Memorial Theatre.

The Sunbirds are at the Tree House, Frome.

Saturday 9th:

Trowbridge RFC V Devizes RFC at Trowbridge Rugby Club

King Alfred’s Tower Charity Abseil for SOS Africa is taking place on the 9th, 10th 16th & 17th September.

Bit hot for cosplay, but there’s a Sci Fi Day at The REME Museum, Lyneham.

There’s a Twilight Cinema at Hillworth Park, Devizes, screening Top Gun Maverick.

Autumn Fabric Pumpkin Making Workshop at the St John’s Parish Rooms, Devizes.

Grizzly Rhys plays The Southgate, Devizes.

Chloe Jordan and Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats play a Wiltshire Air Ambulance fundraiser at The Corn Exchange, Devizes.

Long Street Blues Club, Devizes opens for a new season with The Ian Parker Band.

Bristol’s boss reggae and ska legend Ya Freshness & The Big Boss Band are at Devizes Scooter Club in the Cavalier.

The Boot Hill All Stars are at The Barge on HoneyStreet, with Whistling Treason.

Barrelhouse play The Lamb, Marlborough.

Mantonfest 2023

Saili Katebe at the Yelde Hall, Chippenham.

Bobbi’s Academy Of Dance – Dance First Think After at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Salisbury RFC have their Beggar’s Bash.

The Unravelling Wilburys play Chapel Arts, Bath.

Frome 80s Festival at the Cheese & Grain.

Lifesigns are at The Tree House, Frome.

Sunday 10th.

Hillworth Park Proms with Devizes Town Band at Hillworth Park, Devizes.

The Jon Amor residency at the Southgate, Devizes from 5pm, guest this month is Adam Phillips. 

Nothing Rhymes With Orange plays at The Exchange nightclub, with Stoneface and Ignotis in support.

Pewsey Carnival Week begins, running until 17th.

Daisy Chapman, with Carrie Martin and the Gordon Wood Band at Schtumm, Queen’s Head, Box.

Old Baby Mackerel at The Bell, Bath.

Swindon Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre.

Bridget Christie’s Who Am I? at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 11th:

Di, Viv & Rose opens at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until the 16th.

Wiltshire Motorcycle Rally at Salisbury Rugby Club.

Abigail’s Party opens at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, running until the 16th.

Von Wildenhaus at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 12th

Kosta Burgess at The Bell, Bath.

Libor Smolds & Daniel Newberry Quartet at Jazz Knights, The Royal Oak, Swindon.

That’s all folks, but it’s early days for September, and there is lots more to come!! Let the sunshine…..but do check in on our event calendar too, as updates will be on there, not here, this is just a guide.

Trending….

Devizes Library Hopes To Start Lego Club

Everything is awesome upon hearing that Devizes Library is hoping to start a regular Lego Club, and they are asking folk to donate unwanted Lego…

Shakespeare Live – Autumn Tour

An early and rarely-performed play, ‘Two Gentlemen of Verona’ has feisty heroines, lovelorn & bickering young men, dictatorial parents, foolish suitors, cross-dressing, letters galore, wild…

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 23rd – 29th August 2023

Righty-ho then, this week’s rodeo roundup of all the lovely fings to Scooby-Doo across Wiltshire’s rolling landscape is rather like when you went on holiday as a nipper and your folks bought you your chosen comic’s summer special… a bumper edition!

Okay, millennials and gen z, you’ll need Google to make any sense of that. The rest of us greying lot will remember spilling Ready Brec on their oversized Beano, Dandy or Nutty summer special while listening to the rain hammering onto a caravan roof, but everyone knows with the bank holiday looming, there’s a lot to get through, so here goes……

Oh, one quick thing while I remember, as these roundup posts are getting more popular, (we had over 10K hits for last week’s) you can see from below it’s too much to stick on a Facebook post, so we do it this way because those not on Facebook can also see what’s happening, but more importantly, this list is published early in the week for ticketed events, events which come to our attention, like those smaller pub gigs which pop up on Facebook or Twitter(if we can still call it that) during the week will NOT be listed here, but they will be on the updating event calendar HERE. So, DON’T take this preview piece as comprehensive, DO check the calendar later in the week.

 Pay a visit to Wiltshire Museum, Devizes, for the Anna Dillon exhibition; reviewed HERE.

Also The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham has a street art inspired exhibit, Reviewed HERE.

Ongoing until 29th Sept, The Incredible Quizzical Bath Pub Tour. 

Wednesday 23rd:

The regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon kick off their weekend earliest, with “summer of love” festivities, there’s spoken word and The Cleverly Brothers tonight.

Joe Pasquale’s The New Normal: 40 Years Of Cack comes to The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Fromage en Feu at The Bell, Bath, Iago Banet, The Galician King of Acoustic Guitar at Chapel Arts.

Beaux Gris Gris & The Apocalypse are at the Tree House, Frome.

Thursday 24th:

Nothing Rhymes With Orange are part of a Fantasy Radio Live Lounge at The Crown, Devizes, with poetic interludes by Gail Foster. You can cheat and listen to it on Fantasy, or come down the pub!

The Undercover Hippy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

James Kirby’s The Honest Man Tour at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mr Love & Justice at The Tuppenny, Swindon. Ghosts of this Town  Album Launch Party at The Vic, Horrible Histories – Barmy Britain at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Friday 25th:

Emergency Awareness Training! Wiltshire Air Ambulance at Hillworth Park, Devizes, but also the chance for the kids, and parents of course to meet Bluey from 12-2pm. 

Yeah, I’ve no idea who Bluey is, but I know these guys will rock, Plan of Action at The Three Crowns, Devizes, and these guys will skank, Blondie & Ska at The Pelican, and well, we just love People Like Us who are at the Condado Lounge; spoiled rotten for choice I’d say, Devizes!

Honey-Fest over at the Barge on Honey-Street starts, and what a great lineup there; Mr Tea and the Minions! Further afield, it’s the Reading Festival.

Radiation Sickness at The Consti Club, Chippenham.

Riff Raff Aurora at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford on Avon. West of England Youth Orchestra at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Jurassic Earth at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And music in Swindon is coming up roses: Stop Stop & Studded Rose at The Vic, Black Rose at the New Inn, Stratton, and Sonic Alert at The Queen’s Tap.

‘Shadowing Hank’ Justin Daish’s tribute to Hank Marvin & The Shadows is at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Dr Beetroot heads another glamping live music sesh at the Baa, near Salisbury.

Saturday 26th:

Continuing on Sunday, it’s time again for the FullTone Festival on the Green in Devizes; yay! And if you’re not going to this, or fancy popping out for a stroll, the fantastic Ruzz Guitar Trio play The Southgate.

Humdinger plays The Coopers, Pewsey.

Forest Fest at The Foresters Arms, Melksham has Manhattan Nights, This Way Up, and Marty’s Fake Family, kicking off at noon.

Cooper’s Creek are at The Wheatsheaf, Calne. Zero Hour at The Wiltshire Yeoman, Trowbridge.

Bradford-on-Avon have Castlefest at the Castle, and the fun continues at the Three Horseshoes with cabaret and circus acts. Ocean Blue, a relaxing duo of sax-based pop classics, jazz, blues, Boassa nova, and funk at the Boathouse.

In Swindon, 12 Bars Later at the Wroughton Club, Comedy at the Bowl at the Old Town Bowl, Apache Cats at The Queens Tap. The Little Mermaid at The Wyvern Theatre.

Sunday 27th:

Jim Blair at The Southgate, Devizes, while FullTone continues on the Green. The Potterne CC Festival is on, there’s a bus to the village from the town centre.

Talbot-Fest at the Talbot in Calne, see poster.

Start the Sirens play The Grapes, Melksham.

A happy 16th anniversary to the Open Mic night at the Old Road Tavern in Chippenham. This one kicks off at 7pm.

Starry Eyes, a charitable trust based in Trowbridge, which provides an opportunity for people of all ages, shapes, sizes and backgrounds to get involved in music, has a Disney Day at Studley Green, Trowbridge. Tickets will be available on the door with a range of activities and entertainment available.

The Summer of Love festival comes to a Reggae Reggae Sunday finale, with Troy Ellis with Hail Jamaica at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

It’s Sazz at the New Inn, Stratton, Swindon, 21st Century ABBA & Elton at the Old Town Bowl.

The Original Mike Hoddinott Blues Allstars at The Bell, Bath.

And The Hammervilles’ Bank Holiday Beach Party at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 28th:

Unmissable should the headline read; Well Hung Heart at The Southgate, Devizes. But there’s more, The Reason plays The Three Crowns, and The British Lion holds its Black Rat Monday, with a BBQ and the amazing Be Like Will.

Box Rocks at the Queen’s Head in Box, is the fundraising smasher of bank holiday Monday, previewed HERE, fantastic lineup yet again!

Another outdoor all-dayer at the Lamb Yard in Bradford-on-Avon, see poster.

Kid Hyena at The Bell, Bath.

Tuesday 29th:

Bank holiday over, back to work! I chant this because I’ve forgotten what a bank holiday is; no rest for the wicked (and I mean wicked in eighties ironic slang, cos I’m of that era. Nowadays they say “sick,” what’s wrong with them?!)

But there’s still Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak, Swindon with Swing From Paris, and Rob Clamp plays The Bell, Bath.

And we’re not slowing down when we delve into September, you know? The Deadnotes play the Pump, Trowbridge with The Sunnies in support on Wednesday 30th, The End of the Road Festival kicks off in Salisbury the day after that.

Into September, there’s lots to look forward to from the off, The Future Sound of Trowbridge series starts with Nothing Rhymes With Orange at The Pump on Friday the 1st, with our wonderful new writer Florence Lee’s band Paradigm in support.

Then there’s Devizes Carnival, Pewsey Pride, Swindon Paint Fest, the infamous Party on the Drive 3 in Chippenham, Hillworth Park Proms in Devizes, Burbage Beer Festival, a Sci Fi Day at The REME Museum, Calne, Chloe Jordan and Pete Lamb’s Heartbeats at the Corn Exchange Devizes for an Air Ambulance fundraiser, the new season of Long Street Blues Club begins, boss reggae with the arrive of Ya Freshness at Devizes Scooter Club, Nothing Rhymes with Orange play the Exchange, Pewsey carnival, The Wharf Theatre’s Di, Vi and Rose, Swindon Shuffle, Devizes Food & Drink Festival, and so much more to come!

Trending……

Retro Relics Games Cafe Opening In Lavington

With a wide selection of family-friendly and retro board games, RPGs such as Magic the Gathering, Warhammer and Pokémon, and serving tea, coffee, cakes and, oh,…

Open Mic at the Bell, Great Cheverall, and Other Local Open Mic Nights

Who is Mike anyway, and why is he so open?!

If I said these four words, in this order: open, mic, cellar, and bar, lots of Devizes folk will be evoked with fond reminiscences of Alan Jones and Richard Ben’s regular sessions down in the basement of the Bear Hotel. Many local musicians cut their teeth there, else if already established, rung out their labour of love, and that, in a nutshell is what open mic nights are all about….

But with the event being kaput, I get asked time over, here at Devizine, if I know of any still operating. So last night I popped along to see Nick Beere of Marlborough’s Mooncalf Studios, hosting one at the Bell in Great Cheverell, and off the back of it thought today we could talk about it, and present a more general piece on local open mics; double-whammy.

“I don’t know why I got started doing it,” Nick tells me, as he sets up for the next act. Far from karaoke, Nick is tweaking technical bobs, engineering the sound and advising newcomers, to make them both comfortable and sound professional. There’s a communal feel about open mic nights without pretence. Vince Bell is there, no stranger to an open mic, explaining their importance as a bridge from practising and playing to your friends and family, to getting out gigging. Indeed, there’s an unplanned duo playing tonight, Lisa the singer, and though it’s a nervous start for them, the applause received sent them brewing with deserved confidence.

While you can take it as red Vince delivered his sublime acoustic goodness, he’s here with Devizes singer-songwriter Sorrel Pits, coming across as one of those artists to make excuses, prior to pulling off some beautiful songs adroitly self-penned with meaningful prose.

Guitarist Steve Nicholls and bassist Troy Orourke are also present, uncertain about the future of their band Alfred’s Tower since the singer left, but accompanied on cajon they produced some wonderful instrumental pieces. They asked me if I knew of any singers in need of a band, so if you’re on the hunt get in touch with us and I’ll hook you up. And within this here’s another notable point about open mics, they’re convention-like for networking, a social get-together of like minded talent, and new connections will undoubtedly be made at them.

The Bell at Great Cheverell makes for a hospitable village free house, catering for diners more so, yet often hosting live music; those Truzzy Boys being a particular favourite. No one seemed bothered by being treated to a selection of songs after their meals. Nick runs the open mic here on the second Tuesday of the month, the first Monday of the month he does similar at the perhaps more apt Lamb in Marlborough, and the third Thursday at the Horseshoe in Minal. 

To get involved with open mics, a quick Facebook search is all you need to do to get the ball rolling. Though there’s lots of said groups inactive though, especially post-lockdown. I’ll stick a few groups and pages which we’ve discovered and are currently running at the bottom of this piece. For if you want to break into the local scene, open mic could well be your route. 

Other local open mics worthy of your perusal are Tom Harris’s at the Barge on HoneyStreet. The next one being 22nd September. Join HERE for updates.

In Devizes I only know of one, The Exchange nightclub runs. The next one is Thursday 7th September, and thereafter the first Thursday of each month. HERE is the group you need to join. Though another similar thang, even more communal than open mics are acoustic jams, a particularly popular one being each Wednesday at The Southgate.

Stallards in Trowbridge have open mics on the last Thursday of each month. This group is HERE.

The Old Road Tavern in Chippenham has regular open mics on the last Sunday of the month. Group is HERE. Next evening is Sunday Aug 27th, 7pm to 10.30pm, their 16th anniversary. Chippenham FM’s Brian Reid has been running it since 2014. “We regularly get thirty-forty people each month,” he told us.

Another crucial point Brian made was the Old Road’s is open to poetry and comedy too, as others are likewise. “We have a space which I am proud to say is welcoming and attentive and supportive of newcomers,” he explained, “and a lot of experienced participants come too.”

In Bath Connor McLeod has a regular Monday evening at Belushis, and there’s a general open mic group for Bath, HERE.

Similarly Salisbury has one HERE.

Delaney’s in Wantage have open mics the first Thursday of the month, next up also 7th September. 

For Open Mics across Wiltshire, HERE, and For Open Mics throughout the Southwest, HERE. Have mic will travel!

And if I missed your favourite one, let us know, and we’ll add, provided you don’t expect me to sing personally, as there’s a government health warning on that!

Trending….

Becca Maule’s Teenage Things

I mean, yeah, press releases can be as handy as sitting next to Einstein in a physics test, but reviewing music isn’t an exact science, and while they speed up the process it’s tempting to allow them to spoon-feed you. Sometimes it’s a pleasant surprise to go in blind, as it was with Teenage Things, the debut EP from Salisbury’s young singer-songwriter Becca Maule, due out this Saturday, the 15th July…..

I don’t know why, perhaps taken in by earlier images of Becca sporting a pink bob, and by her supporting Carsick, but as I’ve not had the opportunity to catch her performing I dove in with a preconception this was going to be an all-out riot grrrl explosive thrash of punker style emotional outpouring with little to credit her with other than, well, that was loud!

What I hadn’t taken into account was it was produced at Haxton’s Tunnel Rat Studios with backing by Jolyon Dixon, the studio’s wizard and one half of duo Illingworth, and as a result it’s a dreamy soundscape over acoustic goodness, as is the style Illingworth also purveys. But if the drifting musical ambience has something Pink Floyd-come-melancholic indie, like The Verve or Radiohead, about it, Becca’s voguish and relaxed vocals breath the freshness and vigour of youth into this, and it flows sublimely.

Opening tune Mother Nature is an obloquy commentary on the political ignorance of environmental concerns, and as such while Becca’s self-penned vilification drifts causally alongside the sound, this observation gives in to a spiralling angle of fury; a definite slice of the punk I was expecting slowly builds throughout the tune. This, I’d argue, is astute and profoundly crafted songwriting for someone twice Becca’s age; she’s eighteen and just completed an extended diploma in music performance & production at Wiltshire College.

Teenage Things is no whim project for Becca, the single was released shortly after she performed the title track two years ago, with another Poison Roses, to win a Tunnel Rat’s talent competition, telling the Salisbury Journal at the time, “winning the studio time is golden for me – as a student I don’t have much money and therefore booking studio time is really hard; winning the time means I can professionally record all the ideas in my head instead of trying to do it at home on my not-so-good laptop.”

Let’s just say, that paid off! Vocally I was immediately taken to imagining if Kirsty MacColl came after Lily Allen, she might sound a little something like this. Though not the rap of Kate Nash, her causal inflection brews hints of that voluble style, it’s refined singing still, and I mean this as a high compliment. Though there’s no mention of Kirsty MacColl, Becca replied, “I love Lily Allen, so defo a compliment,” after I put this to her. Am I showing my age now?!

This slightly more upbeat title track follows in this five track EP, and as the name suggests, the subject is teenage anxiety, and the curse of misunderstanding elders. It’s a woeful mard rather than Anthony Burgess fashioned vexation, over a steady beat. If antidepressants like Fluoxetine are insinuated it’s subtle but poignant nonetheless. From here you accept, Becca has more than a few things to say, and she does so with zest and expression. While her peers will identify with this song, parents should take heed too, and consider they’ve forgotten what it was like to be a teenager. This is a double edged sword.

With a conceptual running theme evolving, Little Girl continues on the subject of confusion over coming of age; this drifts so nicely, it is the song Madonna should’ve replaced Papa Don’t Preach with! Now, if Becca has got you onboard and you’re now contemplating how marvellously plotted this is, she throws Affliction of Melancholy Lies into the pot, and peps up the emotive intelligent songwriting another notch or twelve. This moves onto the next stage, relationships and their breakdowns, and is simply gorgeously ruminative. 

And though I don’t want this to end, Creatures has the most beguiling singalong chorus, folding in dark indie connotations, and I’m undecided if the safety of wild animals topic is metaphorical, or not, but it is a gratifying cumulation to a sublimely played EP which you really need to delve into wholeheartedly, rather than simply listen to, and that is a rare gem these days.

I’m so much more than pleasantly surprised, I’m in awe; use any part of this as a press release if you wish, Becca, but perhaps your astute words and the beautiful way you have presented them speak volumes for themselves, and as I said at the beginning, the wow-factor is often a dish best left as a revelation!

I’ll pop Becca’s Link-Tree HERE so you can check in on them on Saturday 15th and stream the EP, and will update this review too with links to it. 

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 28th June – 4th July 2023

Hey, busy week this week, here’s what’s happening across the county. Don’t forget there’s more info on these, ticket links and irregular updates on our fantabulouso Event Calendar, so get ahead one step ahead of the game!

Ongoing, Hail the Curious, the inaugural exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham; check it out by the end of the month. Devizes Tennis Club starts week one of their Tennis Holiday Camp at Devizes Tennis Club; book here.

Wednesday 28th:

Ah, the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Jo Brand: Work In Progress at Swindon Arts Centre.

William KZ at The Bell, Bath, The Beat featuring Dave Wakeling at Bath Forum. 

Thursday 29th:

Open Mic at Stallards, Trowbridge.

B-Sydes & Old Man Boom at The Tuppenny in Swindon, while Something Underneath and Chasing Dolls are at the Vic, Drew Bryant is at Timmy’s Bar, and Coldplay tribute Coldplace at The Wyvern Theatre.

Comedy at Komedia in Bath with Phil McIntyre presents Danny Bhoy’s Now is not a Good Time, Danielle Ward and Tread Softly Productions’ hilarious, intelligent and seriously moving, no-holds-barred look at being a woman in comedy, The Half at the Rondo Theatre.

Friday 30th:

The acclaimed Welsh film, Translations gets a screening at Melksham Assembly Hall, Helen gave us a preview, HERE.

Drew Bryant is at The Pelican, Devizes, with Illingworth at The Three Crowns. And we look forward to Devizes first Pride on Saturday with Drag Queen Bingo at The Wyvern club and an LGBTQ+ Club Night at The Exchange.

There’s an Open Mic at Marlborough Town FC, Swipe Right play the Bear, and Reading Dub Club with the Jah Lion Movement visits the Barge on Honey Street.

B-Sydes at the Pump, Trowbridge, with Old Man Boom in support.

Opening is the amazing Minety Music Festival, nr Malmesbury, and happening all weekend.

Chippenham Comedy Festival starts at the Old Road Tavern, and continues until Sunday 2nd July.

Modern Evils, Viduals and Trippy Kicks at The Vic, Swindon, while Moon and Truck are at The Castle, and Jon Amor Trio at the Beehive. Comedy at The Wyvern Theatre with Phil McIntyre presents Danny Bhoy’s Now is not a Good Time.

Iona Lane with Malin Lewis at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Spectrum at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Ministry of Burlesque cabaret at Komedia, Bath, while the Rondo Theatre have Eleanor Higgins and Bush Productions queer cult sensation, In Pursuet, following two sell-out runs at Edinburgh Festival Fringe. And ‘Your Song’ – a Celebration of the Songs of Elton John at Chapel Arts.

Keith Brymer-Jones is at The Memorial Theatre, Frome, with Led Zep tribute Coda at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 1st:

Marlborough Open Studios starts, and runs over the first four weekends in July between 11am and 5pm. This is a countywide open studios extravaganza where you can visit many different local artists in their studios. 

It is Mantonfest near Marlborough time again; yay! Nothing Rhymes With Orange are at The Barge on Honey Street.

Free to take clothes, swap and donate at Devizes Swap Shop at St James Church from 11am-2pm. It is Devizes first Pride at Hillworth Park, and of course, the 22nd Devizes Beer & Cider Festival. To finish, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective will continue from the beer fest over to the Southgate.

There’s the Heddington and Stockley Steam Rally and Country Fair. 

Becky Lawrence & The Reason play The Green Dragon in Market Lavington.

Saucy Jack at The Pilot, Melksham.

Barney Kenny & Chris Murphey at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Matt Woosey at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Trowbridge Symphony Orchestra at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, and highly recommended Adam and the Ants tribute Ant Trouble at The Three Horseshoes, with The Sylvertones at The BoatHouse.

Italia Conti at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon. My Chemical Romance and Fallout Boy tributes at the Vic, The Black Charade and Fell Out Boy!

Figgle Fest 10th Anniversary, at Figheldean Village Hall Salisbury.

Tribute to Small Faces, the Small Fakers Band has sold out Chapel Arts, Bath.

Gordie Mackeeman & His Rhythm Boys at Frome Memorial Theatre, with An Evening with Simon & Oscar from Ocean Colour Scene at The Cheese & Grain, and Foo Fakers & Nirvanot at the Tree House.

Sunday 2nd:

Carmela’s Wiltshire Wonder Wheels 100km & 10km Charity Cycle Ride.

Jon Amor regular session at the Southgate in Devizes, increibley with the Gris Gris, Robin Davey and Greta Valetni; just wow!

Inspire 2023 free music festival at Warminster Pleasure Grounds.

Zone Club’s Summer Celebration Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Regular first Sunday of the month Blues Jam at the Vic in Swindon.

Monday 3rd I got nought, yet.

Tuesday 4th:

Running until 8th July, the Bradfordians’ Amadeus at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Jazz Knights at The Royal Oak in Swindon brings you the Alex Goodyear Quartet.

That’s your lot for this week, unless you know any different? It’s free to have your event added to our EVENT CALENDAR and feature on our weekly rodeo roundup, so don’t make me come chasing after you, do let us know about them. Have a sixties style fab and groovy weekend!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 13th -19th June 2023

Another summery week ticked off, and our event guide just keeps getting bigger. This week is huge, people, huge ……I mean the week is huge, not the people, I’m not one to body shame as, I believe, is the appropriate gen z term; pass my pronouns, there’s good fellow. 

Don’t forget there’s more info on these, ticket links and irregular updates on our sparkly Event Calendar, so plan ahead. But this week we have…drum roll…..

Ongoing, Hail the Curious, the inaugural exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham; check it out by the end of the month.

Tuesday 13th

Floral Display at Hillworth Park, Devizes, continues Wednesday too. Devizes Arts Festival still going strong, they have Lois Pryce: Revolutionary Ride – One Woman’s Solo Motorcycle Journey around Iran at 3pm in the Bear Hotel, and the fantastic Elles Bailey Band, 8pm at the Corn Exchange.

Nick Beere has an inaugural Open Mic Night at The Bell, in Great Cheverall, which hopes to become a regular second Tuesday of the month thang.

McCartney – The Songbook at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Free-movement dance session 60’s to 80’s music at Salisbury Methodist Church.

Wednesday 14th

Poulshot Green Gathering.

Devizes Arts Festival has Clive Anderson’s Me, Macbeth and I. 7:30pm at the Corn Exchange.

Acoustic Jam at the Southgate, Devizes.

Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre for those with dementia and their families, showing

Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. Menopause The Musical 2 at The Wyvern Theatre.

Charlotte Sauste-Bridoux at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Lunchtime Recital with cellist Idlir Shyti at Pound Arts in Corsham, and a double bill in the evening with Fly Yeti Fly & Pound Sound.

Thursday 15th

Devizes Arts Festival has folk duo Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow, 12pm at St Andrews Church, and the Chris Ingham Trio’s The Jazz of Dudley Moore, 8pm at theTown Hall. 

Paul Henshaw plays The Tuppenny, Swindon. An Evening with Brian Bilston at Swindon Arts Centre, and Phil Wang’s Wang In There Baby! at The Wyvern Theatre. Liddington Hill EP release party at the Vic, with Lucky Number Severn & Dark Prophecy, EP reviewed here.

Folk Open Mic Meets From the Book, at Brown Street, Salisbury, A Night of Folk Music and Poetry, and continues on Saturday.

AC/DC tribute, Hell’s Bells at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. 

Friday 16th

Devizes Arts Festival has Gaelic folk anthems with Christian Garrick and the Budapest Café Orchestra, 8pm at Corn Exchange.

John Langan & Maxine Ria at The Barge, Honey-Street.

Park Lane at The Civic, Trowbridge.

Radiation Sickness at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham.

Longleat Summer Party.

John Bramwell & The Full Harmonic Convergence at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Swindon Folk Club Guest Night: Patakas at The Hop, Swindon, Pink Mac at The Vic, 

21st Century Abba at Meca, Oye Santana at Swindon Arts Centre, and In Conversation With Stacey Dooley at The Wyvern Theatre.

Second night of the Folk Open Mic Meets From the Book at Brown Street, Barbar Luck at The George & Dragon in Salisbury.

Band X atThe Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Isabelle Farah’s Ellpsis at the Rondo Theatre, Bath, and The Alex Voysey Blues Band presents ‘Faux Bonamassa’ at Chapel Arts.

Legends, Bob Marley & the Wailers kick off a ska and reggae weekender at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 17th

Maps for Devizes Open Gardens are ready and on sale now from Devizes Books, Hillworth Park Café, Devizes Town Hall and The Giving Tree in the Little Brittox. £7 in cash per map, continues on Sunday.

Devizes Sustainability Fair in the Market Place from 10am-4pm. 

Devizes Arts Festival has a free fringe event, Carrie Etter Poetry Workshop and reading, at 2pm in the Cheese Hall of Town Hall. Limited numbers so book your place. And 8-piece reggae Latin funk powerhouse Malavita! 8pm at the Corn Exchange, makes the grand finale of what has been a fantastic year for the festival.

Elsewhere in Devizes, find Will Edmunds Trio at The Southgate, and Humdinger debut at The Three Crowns. 

Keevil Summer Roots Festival, a first for the village, preview here.

Stonehenge Campaign Festival, free, at the Barge on Honey-Street.

The Plough at Shalbourne has a FREE Ale and Sausage Festival, with Two Complicated, Deadlight Dance, @59, Reuben Medlin Band and more.

Chippenham Pride has a great lineup, but you will need to register your interest online.

The Rider are at the Pilot in Melksham.

Shaw Summer Family Music Fair.

X-Factor winner Steve Brookstien at The Civic in Trowbridge.

Debut Dance Company: Bodies of Water at Pound Arts, Corsham, followed by Iona Johnson: Musical Storytime and Bella Hardy in the evening. But check out the poster for Corfest at Corsham Rugby Club, what a lineup, loads of my favourites from Train to Skaville, Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Plan of Action and Splat the Rat; nice one!

Barrelhouse play The New Inn, Swindon, Hannah Rose-Platt & Adam Giles Levy at The Tuppenny, Wizards of Oz and Judas Rising at The Vic. Patti Boulaye’s I’m Coming Out at Swindon Arts Centre. Swindon Music Trust holds a Party in the Park at Town Gardens, tickets are £11.50, great lineup, see here. 

Bath Symphony  Orchestra are Across the Pond at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, find Stanchions at The Three Horseshoes.

Peter Gill – Piano Legends at Chapel Arts, Bath, with John William Richard’s Almost Hollywood at the Rondo Theatre.

An evening with Logical Park at The Swan near Barton Stacey, Salisbury.

G4 Live at The Memorial Theatre, Frome, with the Cheese & Grain’s second night of their ska and reggae weekender, featuring the Neville Staple Band. 

Sunday 18th

DOCA’s Picnic in the Park at Hillworth Park in Devizes, a must!

Max & Ivan: Life Choices (Work In Progress) at Pound Arts, Corsham, with Gav Cross: Snack and Stories too.

GBH Big Band’s I Got Gershwin at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, while the amazing Dry White Bones play The Three Horseshoes.

As Fanning at Komedia, Bath

Paul Burling’s Big Daddy Variety Show at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Monday 19th

Declan Gaynor @ The Tap & Barrell, Swindon

And I got nuthin for Tuesday, yet But if I missed anything out let me know, feed me cake and I can update this and our calendar, but if you don’t tell me don’t come crying! Have a great week, remember, sunscreen, people, sunscreen.

Look out for our incoming next article, as we reveal the music lineup at Devizes Beer Festival on the 1st July!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 24th-30th May 2023

OMG, OMG, another bank holiday weekend coming up, who’s excited, who’s coming out to play?! Here’s what we’ve found this week, find the info and links, and for planning ahead, here, on our event calendar. No prizes for guessing Editor’s Pick of the Week this week!

Obviously more stuff will be added to our event calendar as and when it comes to our attention, this is not comprehensive, so do check in later in the week, and let us know what we missed, we charge one cupcake to add an event, but it must be a chocolate one! 

Don’t forget to check out Hail the Curious, the debut exhibit at The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham, running until 30th June. 

Wednesday 24th:

Regular acoustic jam at The Southgate in Devizes.

Skimpy & The Triniti Band at The Bell Inn, Bath, where Little Shop of Horrors runs until Saturday at The Rondo Theatre.

Emmanuel Sonubi’s Emancipated at Swindon Arts Centre, and Gretchen Peters at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

The Mead Community Primary School presents Forever Treasure Island at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon.

Pierre Novellie and Huge Davies, Comedy Previews at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Thursday 25th:

Shindig Festival opens its doors, have a great weekend to all at Shindig, you lucky lot; have a boogie for me!

Open Mic at Stallards in Trowbridge.

Lady Maisery at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Soap Girls play The Vic in Swindon, I say, ding-dong! Reverend Ferriday is at The Tuppenny, Jen Brister’s The Optimist at Swindon Arts Centre, and it’s all soul at The Wyvern Theatre with the Luther show.

Octopus Dream Theatre presents I Love You, Mum, I Promise I Won’t Die at  The Merlin Theatre, Frome.

Friday 26th:

Lou Cox’s n o holds barred one-woman show, Having a Baby and the S**t They Don’t Tell You, at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes for Friday and Saturday; highly recommended from us, but not for the faint hearted!

Meanwhile, 12 Bars Later make a welcomed return to The Three Crowns, Devizes, with the incredible Mark Colton’s solo show at The Pelican.

John Watterson’s celebrated tribute to Jake Thackray, An Evening Without Jake Thackray comes to The Bouverie Hall in Pewsey. Billy & Louie at The Castle & Ball, Marlborough. 

Running until the 29th, it’s the opening of Chippenham Folk Festival, while the fantastic Triple JD Band plays The Old Road Tavern.

Find Castro at The Wheatsheaf, Calne.

The most amazing young soul singer I’ve heard for an era or four, Franki Soul is at Trowbridge Town Hall. While Fly Yeti Fly have a double-bill at The Pump with Alex Roberts and Graeme Ross.

The Karport Collective are the Seven Stars, Winsley, Bradford-on-Avon; fantastic these guys are. Dervish, legends of the Irish folk scene at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Break Cover are at Brown Street in Salisbury.

Tapped at the Theatre Royal, Bath, and The Lynne and McCartney Story Theatre Show at Chapel Arts.

We Were Promised Honey at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Here Come The Crows at The Vic in Swindon, while Rosie Jones’ Triple Threat is at Swindon Arts Centre, and The Roy Orbison Experience comes to The Wyvern Theatre.

Ultimate Coldplay at The Cheese & Grain, Frome, and The Urban Voodoo Machine at The Tree House.

Saturday 27th:

You know it has to be Editor’s Pick of the Week, The Devizes International Street Festival is free, it’s the best weekend in Devizes, and it starts on the Green on Saturday and continues on the Sunday in the Market Place; see you there!

Street Festival after parties, then, find Jonah Hitchens Band at the Southgate, Devizes, Ben Borrill plays at The Moonrakers, and Gerry Jablonski Band plays at the Long Street Blues Club. The Snuff Box has an International Craft Beer Festival, and The Exchange hosts guest DJ, Castro.

Direct from the Pump, Fly Yeti Fly, Alex Roberts and Graeme Ross fly over to The Barge on HoneyStreet, while the Chaos Brothers are at The Lamb in Marlborough. 

Be Like Will & Band Of Pilgrims are at The Pump in Trowbridge.

End of Story at The Talbot, Calne, while Band-X play The Wheatsheaf.

A fundraiser for Swindon’s Ukrainian community at Swindon Hub, Rave Against The Regime at The Vic, The Black Hole Sons at the New Inn, Walk Right Back at The Wyvern Theatre, and Tom Davis’ Work in Progress at Swindon Arts Centre.

Ma Bessie and her Pigfoot Band at Chapel Arts, Bath, with You Are The Sun at Theatre Royal, running until 29th May, and A Shining Intimacy at The Egg.

Triple JD are at the Sun in Frome, the Cheese & Grain have Lindisfarne while The Burning Hell are at The Tree House.

Sunday 28th:

Devizes International Street Festival continues, in the Market Place this time, too much to mention here, but do look out for our homegrown upcoming talent Nothing Rhymes With Orange on the main stage at 2:30pm. 

The Barge, Honey-Street are Celebrating 50 years of Dark Side of the Moon with Atom Heart Floyd.

Jon Amor Trio at The New Inn, Bath, Jolie Blon at The Bell Inn.

Last Call at The Vic, Swindon.

Frome’s Spring Vegan Fair at the Cheese & Grain.

Monday 29th:

Bank holiday goodness then, arty kids will be pottery painting at Hilworth Park, find Kate and The Unpredictables at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Swindon’s famous duck race, see poster below.

Mono at the Cheese & Grain, Tryani Collective at The Bell in Bath.

Tuesday 30th I got nought, unless you know better; always tell us if we’ve missed something! Mind you, I think that’s enough for one week, have a day off, stay home and make beans on toast; you can add a little chilli powder to fully clear your system if you so choose! Have a great weekend, stop me and give me grief if you spot me at the Street Festival, I don’t bite…..not on the nipple at any rate!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th-23rd May 2023

Hey you, had one of those weeks so far, and need to blow off some steam?! I know I have, but you don’t need me to get started on my problems, you need to hear about all the events happening this coming week in Wiltshire; here’s what we’ve found, but there’s always more to come, so info on these, links and further updates can be found on our Event Calendar.

It’s about this time when you really need to be looking over next month too and planning ahead. So much going on in June, from Pride to Devizes Arts Festival and, and, and, well, just have a sneaky peak HERE.

Ongoing: do check out Si Griffith’s new gallery The Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham. There’s an exhibit currently running until the end of June, and it is amazing; see the poster below, and review HERE.  

Wednesday 17th: the regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes. Also, a piano lunchtime recital from Helen Farrar at Pound Arts in Corsham.

The Tight Lipped Combo at The Bell Inn, Bath, and Tiff Stevenson’s Sexy Brain at the Rondo Theatre.

Opening at Swindon Arts Centre and running until 20th May the TinkCo Theatre Group presents Calendar Girls. And Kate Rusby is at the Cheese & Grain in Frome.

Thursday 18th: And The Drystones play The Pump in Trowbridge, with a Comedy Network night at the Civic.

Happy Place at the Rondo Theatre in Bath.

Ghosts of This Town play The Vic in Swindon, Somerset Velvet & James Turner at The Tuppenny, and Lulu’s For the Record is at The Wyvern Theatre.

Jon Royon is a Corsham based potter who took up pottery 5 years ago after taking classes at The Pound, and you can meet him at the Pound in Corsham, and it’s free. In the evening there’s a National Theatre live screening of David Harewood (Homeland) and Zachary Quinto (Star Trek) playing feuding political rivals in James Graham’s (Sherwood) multiple award-winning new drama, Best of Enemies, set in 1968 America, as two men fight to become the next president. This is also showing at the Merlin Theatre in Frome.

Friday 19th: The Reason, are at The Three Crowns in Devizes, and that is never a bad thing! Sarum’s Lot are at The Barge on Honey-Street.

There’s funky jazz and soul from the Shilts at the Civic in Trowbridge.

The Mark Harrison Band at The Rondo Theatre, Bath.

2 Sick Monkeys headline The Vic in Swindon, with Borrowed Time, The Liabilities and Room 10, while The Music of Meatloaf can be found at The Wyvern Theatre with Hits Out of Hell.

George Egg’s Set Menu at Pound Arts, Corsham. The South play the Cheese & Grain in Frome, with A Band Called Malice at The Tree House.

Saturday 20th: Find a 75-minute chaotic journey through the minds of two dudes; Jack & Jordan at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, Lazy Dog Comedy comes to Devizes Con Club, and some edgy folk from Caute’s Plastic Army at the Southgate.

The Travis Waltons at Heartwork at The Pump, Trowbridge, the wonderful Strange Folk play Stallards, and Marty’s Fake Family at the Wiltshire Yeoman.

The Hi Fi’s at Melksham Rock ‘n’ Roll Club, Triple JD Band at The Constitutional Club in Chippenham.

Homer at The Baker’s Arms, Swindon, The Roughcut Rebels at the Swiss Chalet, Faux Fighters at The Vic, Tim Vine’s Breeep! at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Archive of Dread at Rondo Theatre, Bath, with Blurt at The Bell Inn, and Ricky Cool and the In Crowd at Chapel Arts.

Mara Simpson at Pound Arts, Corsham.

But I’m seriously thinking of crossing the border for our Editor’s Pick of the Week, Big Country playing the Cheese & Grain, with Spear of Destiny in support, amazeballs! Meanwhile Muse tribute Muze plays the Tree House.

Sunday 21st: you can find the Madhatter’s Wedding Fayre at Devizes Corn Exchange from 11am-3pm. From 5pm in Devizes, find the Eddie Martin Trio at the Southgate.

Jaywalkers at The Bell Inn, Bath.

All for the kids at Swindon Arts Centre with Grooving with Pirates, and Pop Princesses at The Wyvern Theatre.

Illyria presents Robin Hood in an open air performance at the Merlin Theatre, Frome.

Monday 22nd:

Pasha Finn & The Ellipsis at The Bell Inn, Bath, and Monday also kicks off SparkFest at the Mission Theatre, running until 27th May, there’s lots going on there.

Tuesday 23rd:

War of The Worlds at Swindon Arts Centre, Li’l Jim at The Bell Inn in Bath, and an Exhibition on screen at Pound Arts in Corsham, called Tokyo Stories. 

And that’s all folks. Big weekend next time, bank holiday again, and Devizes Street Festival with so much other great stuff going on it’s going to take me until next week to type it all out here! Have a good one, big love, Darren.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 10th-16th May 2023

Okay, the king’s bank holiday is over, put your bunting away it’s turning into soggy mush now! Onwards to what’s happening across Wiltshire this coming week…..

As usual, find info and links on our event calendar HERE. But do check in on the calendar throughout the week as updates will be added when they come in, and are not included here. It’s the conflict between getting this out there as early as possible for tickets to ticketed events, and balancing this with the smaller venues who will sporadically put up a social media post on Thursday night! So, it’s not comprehensive, just a guide, check a check on the calendar. 

Ongoing, lucky you if you have a ticket for the Railway Children at the Wharf Theatre, which is nearly sold out, and running until Saturday. We reviewed it here.

Also find a review HERE for Hail the Curious alternative art exhibit at the newly opened Forbidden Carnival in Chippenham, go see this!

Wednesday 10th, and there’s the usual Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Anu Vaidyanthan’s BC:AD – (before children, after diapers) at the Rondo Theatre, Bath. Hang Massive at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Broken Robot Production Presents Britain’s Got Talent finalist, Magical Bones at Swindon Arts Centre, and Tony Blackburn brings his Sound of the Sixties to The Wyvern Theatre.

Thursday 11th Spare Snare with Ravetank at The Pump in Trowbridge.

Mark Simmons’ Quip off the Mark at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Modern Evils & Cosmic Ninja at The Vic in Swindon, Good Habits at the Tuppeny, with Johannes Radebe’s Freedom Unleased at The Wyvern Theatre.

Friday 12th sees The Four Sopranos at Devizes Town Hall, and The Unpredictables at the Condado Lounge. SynthCity plays the Bear in Marlborough.

Bath Festival starts Friday, running until 21st May, lots to see and do there. Rock the Tots are at the Rondo Theatre with some One Hit Wonders. 

ZZ Topped at The Vic in Swindon, Suzie Ruffell at Swindon Arts Centre.

Gary Davis BBC Sounds of the Eighties at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 13th is the annual Stert Country House car boot sale near Devizes, for Cancer Research. Rock Hoppaz at The Three Crowns, Devizes that evening, The Duskers at The Southgate, Ben Borrill is at the Moonrakers, and Slade tribute Sladest at the Cavalier for a Devizes Scooter Club night. 

Static Moves play The Barge on Honey-Street, Trash Panda at The Lamb, Marlborough, @59 play the Bear.

Scott Doonican’s Bar-Stewards Sons of Val Doonican is at The Pump, Trowbridge; long since sold out I’m afraid; you’ve got to keep scrolling through our event calendar, and be quick!

Dilton Marsh Scarecrow Trail continues Sunday too!

The Green Man Festival in Bradford-on-Avon, free, see poster below.

Simon Munnery’s Trials & Tribulations is at Rondo Theatre, Bath

Alasdair Beckett-King at Swindon Arts Centre.

XSLF at the Tree House in Frome, Eric Bibb at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 14th sees Avebury Artisans Market, and a Wellbeing Nature Day at West Lavington, and Jack Grace Band is at the Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

Monday 15th I have nought, nada, let me know if something crops up!

Tuesday 16th is Poetika 111, The Great Outdoors at The Winchester Gate in Salisbury, 

Anton De Beke & Friends at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and the Pretenders, yes, I said The Pretenders, at the Cheese & Grain; wowzers, every town needs a cheese and some grain, don’t they?!

Looking forward for needy speedy timely ticket takers, Thursday sees folk dance fusion at the Pump with The Drystones, and Lulu come to Swindon, Jack & Jordan’s Sketch Show at the Wharf in Devizes on Saturday 20th, and Lazy Dog comedy comes to the Devizes Cons Club, Big Country at The Cheese & Grain. So much more going on, all you gotta do is keep scrolling, and have a great week.  

Oh, and of course, there’s this…… whoa Nellie!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 2nd- 8th May 2023

Whoa, decided today, Thursday, I’d have to start planning this one immediately, because there’s soooo much going on, and all, or mostly all, because of that King bloke, who I just thought had a pop hit in 1984 with “Love & Pride,” but apparently it’s a smidgen more complex than that, the guy is royalty or something. So, grab your celebratory mug, wrap it around your bunting, and let’s have it out now…..

Firstly, I must interject and explain; our article highlighting coronation-related events  received criticism from anti-royalist keyboard warriors who either didn’t digest if bothered at all to read the article, just jumped to conclusions, they did. If you think for one second I’d support a defective archaic institution which uses tax-payer’s money to bail-out nonce family members then you don’t know me at all. I do, however, despite being as anti-royalist as the next anti-royalist, support the Coronation for all the local entertainers and small businesses which will benefit from getting bookings, only a couple of short years after having no revenue at all. So, wind your neck in, and I hope that’s cleared that up!

There’s plenty of stuff to do this coming week, if you want flag-waving or not, so let’s drop the subject and get on with listing them. Don’t forget, all links and info can be found on our event guide, and updates through the week will be added, so keep abreast, and up-to-date; this article is not conclusive.

Ongoing from Monday 1st to 7th May, is the Swindon Festival of Literature; lots happening there worth checking out.

Opening night for Zog at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, on Tuesday 2nd, and running until Thursday 4th, family entertainment based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.

Wednesday 3rd, is the regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Seeds of Memories is a wistful and uplifting show packed to the brim with puppetry and poetry. It offers a gentle exploration of losing a loved one and dealing with grief through the magic of the memories they leave behind, and it’s at the Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Thursday 4th: Sees Derailer & Dangermind at The Vic, Swindon, the Hothouse Flowers at The Cheese & Grain, Frome, and some raw, open and honest but most importantly…funny comedy at the Rondo Theatre, Bath with Richard Hardisty’s Silly Boy.

Friday 5th: and King Charles Coronation kicks off, with a school art exhibition at St Peters Marlborough, events at Hilperton Village Hall, and the Junkyard Dogs are in Bromham.

The Blackheart Orchestra are at the Pump in Trowbridge, Sack Sabbath tribute at The Vic, Swindon. A homecoming for Will Lawton & The Alchemists at Malmesbury Town Hall. Six O’clock Circus at The Three Crowns, Devizes.

Rock For Heroes at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and an extra show for John Kearns’ The Varnishing Days at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Saturday 6th: Wiltshire Farmers’ Market in Devizes.

King Charles Coronation continues, you’ll find live music from 4pm at The Crown, Bishops Cannings with White Horses, Tom Davis & The Bluebirds, and Plan of Action, other events include Urchfont, Picnic in the Park at King George’s Playing Fields in Melksham, Coronation Live Screening at John Coles Park, Chippenham, at Foxham Reading Room, Seend Village Community Centre, The Parade Cinema in Marlborough, The Cooper’s Arms Pewsey have a great music programme, in Westbury Be Like Will are at The Players, and Westbury Cons Club has a party too. Picnic in the Park at The Rec in Calne from 10am-9pm, looks amazing, Coronation Celebrations at Devizes Market Place from 10:30-4pm.

Away from all that, find the Leon Daye Band at The Southgate, Devizes, and Kyla Brox Band at Long Street Blues Club; it’s all too royal with cheese for me, so yeah, Kyla Brox, Long Street you got my Editor’s Pick of the Week, hands down!

Acoustic punk band, Abdoujaparov of ex-Carter USM guitarist Les Carter headline the Pump, Trowbridge, with support from former Browfort frontwoman, Claire Kearley, and “Song for Trowbridge” hero Gavin Osborn.

Rammlied at The Vic, Swindon, Sonic Alert at the Queens Tap, Homer at The Sun in Coate, Rosie Holt’s Woman’s Hour at The Wyvern Theatre.

Jah Wobble’s Invaders of the Heart take the Cheese & Grain, Frome, nice.

Sunday 7th: King Charles Coronation celebrations at Ogbourne St George Primary school, Ludgershall, All Cannings with Alfred’s Tower, Rowde with People Like Us, Parade House Trowbridge, and Spring in the Park at Westbury. Devizes Town Band have a coronation concert at the Corn Exchange, called Animal Magic.

Unmissable monthly jaunt for Jon Amor & Guests at The Southgate, Devizes. Phil Samuel’s The George Michael Experience is at the Bridge Inn, Horton, Devizes.

Open Mic night at the Barge on Honey Street.

The King’s Reggae at The Castle & Ball, Marlborough, with Razah-I Fi; ding!

Courting Ghosts & Becky Lawrence are at The Stallards Inn, Trowbridge.

Sour Apple at The Kings Arms, Amesbury.

Blues Jam at The Vic, Swindon.

Magpie Market at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Monday 8th: King Charles Coronation at The Crown in Bishops Cannings with Illingworth, also a Produce Show at The Village Hall.

By the time you read this I’m predicting it a sell-out, but worth checking, opening night for The Railway Children The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until 13th May.

Tuesday 9th: Seven Drunken Nights at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And that’s your lot, enough for you to do?! Here’s to the king, let us hope his reign is long and healthy, even if only so I don’t have to type all that for one weekend again for a while!!

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Carsick Pump It!

By Ben Niamor (with Devizine edits)

This evening I’ve been reminded of a different feeling, something missing in recent years; noisy, energetic, bordering madness…..

Youthful bands with something to say, a truly incredible gig. Sheer Music Presents Carsick at Trowbridge’s Pump, with Devizes own Nothing rhymes with Orange, and first out Meg, from Trowbridge.

Meg has a great voice and some great original songs. NRWO are a great, bouncy, mosh-friendly, superb band with huge potential for a wider audience.

And Salisbury’s Carsick – holy shit, good band! They reminded me of seeing new wave punk, or laterally The Computers. Clearly the whole assembled crowd of all ages felt the same, a resonance, an energy, a way to make people feel alive.

Instant fan, incredible…

It’s been too long since I’ve seen anyone stand on a balcony, or the drum kit, since I saw crowd surfing or saw so many people having fun in this way.

Pump promoter Kieran J Moore continues to impress and influence me, with bands but also the incredible support he offers a scene that evolves. Nights like this makes me proud to know him. 

I have been told by record store owners, reviewers, many people I needed to see these bands and somehow I’ve landed on my feet and seen both together. Thank you all of you, amazing gig and won’t be the last time I see any of you.

Kieran said of the gig, “it’s single handedly more impressive, valuable and important when a band can come to a rural backwater town and blow up a scene, show and venue. Last night, once again, we showed that you don’t need to leave Trowbridge to have the time of your life.”

“Three young, fresh new artists played The Village Pump, and hundred people witnessed something you cannot fake, or throw money at to create. We saw something real, genuine, pure and incredible. It was that simple.”

The Devizine editor, gutted for being unable to make this one(!) wishes to extend this by congratulating all at this fantastic grassroots venue on our doorstep. The Pump continues going from strength-to-strength, last week the subject of a BBC Points West filming, highlighting hostess and trainee sound engineer Megan, as part of her work via The Prince’s Trust. The filming will be broadcast this Thursday 4th May. On our maiden voyage to the Pump, Megan made the perfect host, and her enthusiasm for this opportunity spoke volumes.

We continue to ensure all forthcoming gigs at the Pump are listed on our event calendar, and a direct link to their website is HERE.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 25th April – 1st May 2023

Hey, how’s you? Ah, been better, been worse, thanks for asking. Here’s what we’ve found to be doing over this coming week…….

All links, info and updates can be found on our event calendar. Other incoming events will be added there when we discover them, so do check in later in the week. For now though…. 

Tuesday 25th April:

Deadlight Dance on the Radio! Yes, Marlborough’s goth-rock duo Deadlight Dance will be live and chatting to Peggy on Don’t Stop the Music Show tonight, on Swindon 105.

Staying in Swindon, The Cavern Beatles pay The Wyvern Theatre.

And there’s the regular jazz night at il Fiume in Bradford-on-Avon, with the Graham Dent Trio.

Wednesday 26th:

Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Sirius Chau at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon.

Running until 29th April, opening night for Julius Caesar at Rondo Theatre, Bath.

Also Running until 29th, Phoenix Players presents The Business Of Murder at Swindon Arts Centre.

Thursday 27th:

 Open Mic night at Stallards, in Trowbridge. 

Alex Lipinski and The Crown Electric & Matt Owens and The Delusional Vanity Project at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Mr Love & Justice play The Tuppenny, Swindon, while there’s a Chuckles Comedy Club at Meca, and The Diana Ross Story at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon

Friday 28th:

Marillion tribute Marquee Square Heroes play the entire Script For A Jesters Tear for its 40th anniversary at Marlborough Town FC. Laurence plays Motown and soul classics at The Castle & Ball.

It’s The Final of Take the Stage 2023 at The Neeld, Chippenham, and Mr Love & Justice play The Old Road Tavern.

A Moroccan Banquet at Trowbridge Town Hall.

Billie Bottle’s Temple of Shibboleth – Solarference at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, while Brake Lights play The Boathouse.

Tribute to Bonnie Raitt at Chapel Arts, Bath,The First Raitt Band. 

Oasish & Stereotonics at The Vic in Swindon, The Illegal Eagles at The Wyvern Theatre.

The Big Excuse: Featuring Solcura, Bit Bigger, and Big Dog at 23 Bath Street, Frome, and the Toasters play The Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 29th:

Is Seend Beer Festival, also the start of Urchfont Scarecrow Festival, which is running until Monday.

Mr Love & Justice is at The Southgate, Devizes, Ben Borrill at the Moonrakers.

The Duskers at The Barge on Honey-Street.

Barrelhouse plays The Bear in Marlborough.

The Woodbridge, Pewsey has a hog roast with live music from The Busy Fools.

From Jovi & Dragoneye at The Wheatsheaf in Calne.

The Upbeat Beatles play The Civic in Trowbridge, sold out already at The Pump for Carsick with support from Nothing Rhymes With Orange and Meg.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream Masquerade – The Mayor’s Charity Ball at the Neeld, Chippenham.

Operation 77 at the Westbury Cons Club, Local Heroes Inc at Prestbury Sports Club, Warminster.

The Lost Trades return to Wiltshire after a national tour, and play the Hop Inn, Swindon. Meanwhile it’s emo night at The Vic with Black Parade. Paul Young – Behind The Lens at The Wyvern Theatre.

Lucis Choir at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Pop-Up Bowie at Chapel Arts in Bath.

The Cheese & Grain in Frome has Peter Hook & The Light, and Greg Lake tribute Lucky Man at the Tree House.

Sunday 30th:

Dr Zebo’s Wheezy Club will be at The Southgate, Devizes from 5pm.

May Day Musical Mayhem at The Talbot Inn, Calne, raising funds for Campaign Against Living Miserably, they have Six O’Clock Circus, Peaky Blinders, One Chord Wonders, Red Light, Absolute Beginners, The Killertones Underground and The Daybreakers.

Family Concert at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon,Noisy Nature with the Magnard Ensemble.

Devil’s Doorbell are live in session at The Electric Bar, Bath

Raver Tots comes to Meca, Swindon, while The Wyvern Theatre has the Ministry of Science.

Monday 1st:

Running until 7th May, Swindon Festival of Literature opens.

Monthly album listening club, The long Player at The Vic, Swindon.

And that’s it, do check out Zog with the kids at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, opening Tuesday 2nd, and running until 4th May. Then we have the King’s Coronation next weekend, lots going on to do with that, and lots happening if you wish to avoid that! Do keep a check up on the calendar. 

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 5th – 11th April 2023

Here we are in April, and it’s looking nice, here’s what we’ve found to do this coming week…easter bank holiday…is it, really? Sorry, I don’t get bank holidays, you lethargic lay-about chocolate-egg eating lot!!

Said it before, I’ll say it again, more stuff will be added, this is published on Mondays so you’ve time to grab any tickets for ticketed events, but live music in pubs and things like this will no doubt come to our attention through the week, so please keep in the loop with our event calendar as it’d be impossible if not very cluttered to post individual events onto our social media pages.

The one link you need is here, our event calendar, for planning ahead, more info and ticket links.

Wednesday 5th is the second day of the Devizes Bouncy Castle Kingdom inflatable park on the Green, you need a ticket for this, and they’re mostly sold out. Another Easter treat is the Cartoon Circus Live at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Wednesday is regular acoustic jam night at the Southgate in Devizes, bring an instrument.

Little Women runs at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Thursday 6th and Devizes Bouncy Castle Kingdom, is inflated for one last day.

There’s a monthly regular open mic at The Barge, Honey Street.

Vamos presents Oxygen Thief at the Old Road Tavern in Chippenham, with Harmony Asia and MEG.

And Pop-Kids, a big easter neon family rave kicks off proceedings for Vic-Fest at the Vic in Swindon. All weekend, there’s a ton of bands playing, I’ll see if I can locate a poster…. ah yes, you go. It must be Editor’s Pick of the Week, surely?! Here Come the Crows headline Thursday, Talk in Code on Friday, All Ears Avow Saturday, and Mother Vulture on Sunday, with loads supporting bands.

Meanwhile Gary Meikle’s 2.5 is at Swindon Arts Centre, Fast Trains & English Weather play The Tuppenny.

Friday 7th Funked Up play the Pelican in Devizes, Midnight Hour play the Three Crowns.

Find Frog & Henry at The Barge on Honey-Street, and some raw rockabilly at The Bear in Marlborough with The Vipers.

The Dreamers (formerly Freddie & The Dreamers) headline a celebratory Sixties extravaganza, The Lollypops & Moptops Show at Melksham Assembly Hall.

At the Pump in Trowbridge, we have NervEndings with Start the Sirens.

Here Come Crows at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, while there’s Fitz of Giggles comedy night at The Boathouse.

Sour Apple play The New Inn in Winterbourne Monkton.

Simon Brodkin’s Screwed Up tour at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

The Beggar’s Bash at Salisbury Rugby Club.

On Saturday 8th Talk in Code will instore at HMV in Swindon from 3pm.

The Blind Lemon Experience arrive at The Southgate, Devizes, and it’s a welcome return for Illingworth at The Three Crowns in Bishops Cannings, (hope you’re better Jon) don’t forget though, camping is available there. Two Complicated play The Barge, Honey-Street.

Marty’s Fake Family at Stallards in Trowbridge, Be Like Will at The Greyhound.

Boogie Wonderland at Spencer’s Club Melksham, check the poster below!

Blue Moon Band at the Wheatsheaf in Chippenham.

The Forgetting Curve and a support at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

And while Vic-Fest continues at The Vic, Sonic Alert play The New Inn, and Swindon’s Meca has an Eltonesque night.

Sunday 9th Garden Sale at Hillworth Park in Devizes from 12-2:15pm, from Devizes in Bloom.

Two great choices for Sunday afternoon blues, it’s the monthly residency of Jon Amor at The Southgate, Devizes, where his guest will be Leburn Maddox, a master of blues from Philadelphia; just wow! And The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon has the fantastic The James Oliver Band.

Monday 10th I got nothing, yet.

Tuesday 11th and Gordon Buchanan’s 30 Years in The Wild is at The Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

And that’s it, folks, have a great easter week, and if you want to buy me an egg, I’m partial to a Buttons one, thank you!

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Poetika Open Mic Night The Winchester gate, Salisbury. Tues 21st March 2023

By Helen Edwards

A few weeks ago whilst scrolling through social media an advert for this event came up.  Intrigued and having never been to a poetry night before I popped it into my calendar.  The date soon came round and I nearly bailed… too much to do, too far to drive, too dark, cold, lazy.  But before making the final call I did some research.  My main discovery was that the 21st March is in fact, World Poetry Day.  So that was that, decision made and done.  I was on my way to have poetry fun (yep, I know).

I arrived at the pub adjacent to Salisbury’s ring road, went to the bar, and found myself standing next to a very tall Queen of Hearts. A huge auburn beehive wig added to her intimidating height.  The theme (I remembered) was ‘Through the Looking-Glass”.  Already feeling out of place with my usual jeans, sweater, and trainers garb, I tentatively walked into the intimate and warm side-room. Twenty or maybe thirty people sat, perched, or stood near tables decorated with playing cards and jam tarts, all facing the low stage embellished with tinsel and a large mirror reflecting their expectant faces.

Watching the final stragglers squeeze in, it became clear that most of the audience knew each other or of each other. Because of this the atmosphere felt supportive and inclusive.  I sipped my wine, relaxed and opened my mind. Then BAM.  The Queen of Hearts, Alice and the Rabbit, ‘I’m late, I’m late!’ jumped on stage and performed a semi-rehearsed intro show. Scripts in hand and costumes adorned, the passion and dedication to Poetika came across to all.  My initiation into the poetry night proved louder, brasher and way more fun than anticipated.

With the ice, and not the mirror, broken the poets took to the mic.  The Queen of Hearts, Nikki (I learnt at the interval that Nicki is the chief organiser of Poetika) stepped up to read her fast paced, caustic, funny lines. It wasn’t solely the poems that had me chuckling; Nicki’s striking resemblance in looks and mannerisms to the eclectic and talented Sue Pollard amused me throughout. When I told her in the break that her poems reminded me of John Cooper-Clarke, the famous punk poet and I was informed that she was his support act for part of a past tour. How cool.  It’s obvious that JCC has been a huge influence on her work. I was offered a slot on stage in the second half to read my own stuff and responded by nodding whilst shaking my head simultaneously unsure as to whether I’d just enthusiastically agreed or vehemently declined.

Back to the first half. After Nicki came a succession of amateur poets, including Poetika’s Alice (Ria) with her clever plot and sweet but sharp delivery and the Rabbit (Jamie).  I sat consumed, listening deeply, trying not to miss the, at times, lightning quick word concoctions. It became clear that this was theatre. This was not a read-off-the-page poetry recital but a pure and raw exposure of one’s writing, wit, and inner workings. Deep and true – as poetry can be … with a big dose of stage presence.  

Two of the next performers achieved a stand-up comedic delivery with inspired words and accompanying audience participation. Ripper’s ‘Cider’ poem, a fun crowd pleaser, was read with an air of self-deprecating, drole, deadpan humour. Move over Romesh Ranganathan.  The other, Craig, is a born comedian. He evoked laughter throughout his set but brushed aside each short poem with a ‘and that’s that one!’ remark, his poetry performance tic.

My favourite act of the night allowed all present to dive right through the looking-glass and into the authors heart. Echo, a beautifully presented human with self expression etched on every inch of clothing, jewellery, exposed skin and hair was outstanding. I cannot compare the writing to any other: FYI my current education level in poetry is pretty low so to me it was totally unique.  A mirror to the soul was shared and if I hadn’t heard another all night, the poem, ‘T1’ alone was worth hauling my butt to Salisbury for. Softly delivered, a hard-hitting exposure to drug use walked us around a squat and Echo’s mind.  A beautiful shock of a poem.  The lines, ‘I glance up, I see myself in the mirror malnourished, dying.  I look away quickly to convince myself my reflection is just simply lying’ speak for themselves.  I wouldn’t be surprised if Echo’s words are bouncing off much bigger venues’ walls in the future.

The event’s special guest came next, the professional poet, Claire H from Bournemouth. Claire began with a capsule lesson on poetry agreeing with another writer (sorry, source unknown) that poetry ‘isn’t a hiding place it’s a finding place’.  Claire H, a self-branded witch poet, told her transfixed guests that ‘poetry saved her life’. ‘That old chestnut’ I hear you smirk but I believed every word. And judging by the reflective silence that followed it seemed many were concluding similar, that words had performed a transformative magic on them too.

Claire’s stage presence, from her downright natural, cool-as demeanour to her dance-like arm movements marked her out as ‘the professional’ on the night. Even her poems had their own stand to be read from. I immediately connected both with Claire’s honest, clear and charged poems and her generous and kind personality. She told me at the interval that she reads tarot cards but apart from this and her signature black fingerless gloves I wasn’t really feeling the broomstick vibes. Maybe the reference to ‘burning effigies of all those women I wasn’t’ was the giveaway.

Claire’s ‘England’ poem was excellent: political, clever, personal and relatable. But my preferred piece was ‘Forty’ describing what it can be like to be a woman in the fourth decade of life right now. Spot on.  The snippet that has stayed with me however came from her ‘Love and Other Natural Disasters’ poem: ‘Fractured affections and dislocated devotions’.  Claire left us with the insightful advice ‘to look to the poetry of your intuition’.  

The interval was like a cold-water immersion into a truly creative bunch of people.  It was powerfully revitalising and eye-opening to see glimpses of lives lived so differently to my own. I wanted more.  

Act two came with more solid performances from Poetika trio, Nicky (reading John Cooper-Clarke), Jamie with his ‘Tory’ poem, and Ria with her superb ‘Black Dog’ piece. Ria’s quirky, sweet radiance could fool one into mis-labelling but listen to this poem, and you will hear a voice full of strength and intelligence. Respect to you, Ria, for picking a fight with Sir Winston Churchill.  You educated and made us see that his labelling of black dogs as synonymous with depression was wrong. I love how Ria’s quiet passion permeated the room and how her words weaved anger and the virtues of black dogs into a great poem.

We had a Gary Stringer (lead singer of 90’s band, Reef) look-alike sing a lovely song about his mum’s death, Lois a relative newbie reading her second poem of the night and more from the comedy poets Ripper and his mate ‘and that’s that one!’ Craig.  We had Hopper, confidently read his second poem and then we had me.  Confidence slipped away as I heard my name called. Tummy swirling, I floated above the scene and listened as I read out a personal piece of me.  I received a warm clap and vocal praise.  Thank you Poetika, my ego enjoyed the moment.  I write for me but sharing on the night was good.  And inspiring. The following day I wrote two poems.

If you want to sit back and take in the theatre, the warmth, the tough emotions and the laughter then I would highly recommend going along to Poetika in Salisbury. You will be welcomed and hopefully, as I was, surprised and inspired by the talent in the room.  If you have an inkling that you’d like to get up on stage to read then please do. I may have had an out of body experience but it’s charged me up like a supernova. You could always do what I did and go on your own.  If you die on stage you never have to go back… if no one you know hears it, it never really happened, right?

Thanks Team Poetika. See you in the future.

Next Poetika night: 18th April 2023, 7.30pm The Winchester Gate, Salisbury. Theme: tbc.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 22nd – 28th March 2023

All the ickle birdies singing in the blossom, and it’s beginning to look at bit more like spring, which it should, being equinox, which basically means, take a raincoat to all the events we’ve found to do in Wiltshire this coming week!

As usual, more information and ticket links to everything I waffle on about here can be found on our event calendar. I know, like a stuck record I say this every week, but listen up; this article is put out on the Monday or Tuesday of each week, and is compiled from many sources, from individual venue’s websites, and various social media groups. Once published you can guarantee someone, somewhere, usually on a Facebook share, will inevitably say “oh, you forgot this!”

So, with this in mind, I do try to update the article, but be aware not always, so the best place to go and check for updates towards the end of the week is our calendar, as it will be updated there.

It’s never an easy task, to remember to check everywhere, it’s like data juggling, and often stuff gets missed, but never think it’s because we don’t like you, or something similar, it’s only that we missed it within the perpetual overload of information coming in! We love you all, please message us if you know of something we forgot and we’ll do our upmost to get your event out there.

Onwards, to Wednesday 22nd March 2023, when as ever there’s an acoustic jam at the Southgate in Devizes. Opening night for Made in Dagenham at the Neeld in Chippenham, and that’s running up to Saturday 25th.

Also running until Saturday, Sheelagh Stephenson’s dark comedy, The Memory of Water is presented by Rondo Theatre Company at The Rondo in Bath.

Afrobeat/funk at The Bell in Bath with Worm Discs Attack’s DunDunDun.

Argentine tango king and Strictly Come Dancing legend, Vincent Simone, brings his show Tango Passions to the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, with Paula Duarte as his leading lady.

Thursday 23rd and The History of Soul, a joyous, life-affirming celebration of soul music through the years performed by a truly exceptional 9-piece band can be found at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Jessie Phelps plays The Tuppenny in Swindon, with Trashed, Sweet Diego and Palps at The Vic. Endorsed by Rod’s own family, Some Guys Have All the Luck – The Rod Stewart Story comes the Wyvern Theatre.

The Sylvertones play The Bear in Bradford-on-Avon, Steve Knightley’s 2023 solo tour, Unlock Me & Other Lockdown is at Chapel Arts, Bath. Wildlife presenter Gordon Buchanan’s 30 Years in the Wild is at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Friday 24th Wilswood Buoys, Meg and Ed Dyke play the Pump in Trowbridge, The Lost Trades are at Chapel Arts in Bath.

Celebrated Irish singer songwriter Brigid Mae Power paints expansive songs that are effortless, hypnotic, and folk-oriented, at Pound Arts in Corsham.

Find Stanton PLC and Yur Mum at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon. While The AKA Trio play the Wiltshire Music Centre. AKA Trio is the result of 12 years of friendship between three world-renowned virtuosos: Italian guitarist, Antonio Forcione; Senegalese kora player, Seckou Keita and Brazilian percussionist, Adriano Adewale.

Looks like the last time you’ll ever get to see punk legends Cockney Rejects, as they play a farewell tour at The Vic in Swindon, with Angry Itch and Street Outlaws in support. For a more relaxed evening in Swindon, find The Simon and Garfunkel Story at the Wyvern Theatre.

Black Sabbath tribute, Sack Sabbath at the Tree House in Frome, while more dance tributes play The Cheese & Grain, Chemical Dance and Daft Punk Experience.

Right, now, starting off with a craft fair at Melksham Assembly Hall, Saturday 25th is humongous, so pay attention! I’m at least triple-booked with no idea which I want to do; might have to flip a coin!

Guest at the last Jon Amor’s monthly residency at the Southgate, Thomas Atlas brings his full band to Long Street Blues Club in Devizes, and that’ll be lovely. But folk artist John E Wright plays down The Cellar Bar, the incredible Plan of Action play The Three Crowns, Devizes Scooter Club presents legendary northern soul DJ Terry Hendrick at The Cavalier, and DJ Flash is at The Exchange.

Any of these will be great, but, one of our favourite-most, local dark country blues band, Concrete Prairie play The Southgate, Devizes, and this is unmissable, guys; that means don’t miss it(!!) and I’m sorry to everyone else, but I must, by law, make this Editor’s Pick of the Week!

Now, that’s not all, because there will be trippy sita playing at The Barge on Honey-Street when Omnivibes arrive in the evening, but before this, from around 3pm, our favourite Marlborough eighties new-wave/goth duo, Deadlight Dance will play a set, you may recall they came to my birthday party a few weeks gone. Personally, I’m having difficulties remembering much of that evening, with no explanation why.

Another damn fine choice, is to head to The Lamb in Marlborough, for if Pants were invited to play Vyv and Jackie’s farewell party as landlords there, the new owners have only gone and invited them back; utter madness, is precisely what you’ll find, and The Vooz are also playing.

Sheer Music presents indie favourites Arms & Hearts at the trusty Pump in Trowbridge, with Ed Poole in support (ignore the date on my poster, it’s changed.) The lovely Sour Apple play the Wiltshire Yeoman.

Ignore the date here, it is on Saturday!

Tequila Slammers play at Melksham Rock n Roll Club, while Peaky Blinders Band do their thing at The Pilot in the Sham.

A whole host of amazing choirs from across Wiltshire descend on Calne’s Pocket Park for The Big Sing 2023: A song for Elton, a glittering finale to this year’s fabulous Calne Spring Sing, as they film a very special 76th birthday message for one of the best-selling artists of all time, Sir Elton John.

Iron Maiden tribute at Chippenham’s Consti Club, Ed Force One.

Find the wonderful Kirsty Clinch at Suave in Westbury.

Triple bill at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, with The Bolsheviks, The Setbacks & Split Dog. Dom Martin plays Chapel Arts, Bath.

Pearl Jam tribute, Earl Ham at the Vic in Swindon, and social media sensation and Chortle Award winner, Rosie Holt debuts an hour of comedy based on her smash-hit satirical videos at the Wyvern Theatre.

Thom Belk will be at Wilton Live at Michael Herbert Hall in Wilton.

Gaz Brookfield plays The Tree House in Frome, while King King play The Cheese & Grain, with Glenn Tilbrook.

Sunday 26th, Furlined at The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon, Fly Yeti Fly at Schtumm, The Queens Head in Box, and there’s an album crowdfunding launch for this ever-hotter Blues & Rhythm ensemble, Kirris Riviere & The Delta du Bruit at The Bell, Bath.

Revolution Performing Arts School presents The Soaring Revolution at Swindon Arts Centre.

At the The Cheese & Grain, Frome Voices sing Mozart.

Monday 27th and it’s the opening night of hidden Shakespearean gem Measure for Measure at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes, running until April 1st, when they have their open day. Directed by Liz Sharman, see preview here.

Ben Tunnicliffe’s Nowhere Ensemble bring synth bass, bass clarinet, drums and keys into the room marked jazz and don’t entirely behave as expected, at The Bell in Bath.

Tuesday 28th, Crazy Bird Comedy is back at The Piggy Bank in Calne, with Andrew Bird headlining, and Tuesday also sees Dreamcoat Stars at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon, and Ivo Graham’s My Future My Clutter at Swindon Arts Centre.

Ruth Blake plays The Bell in Bath.

And that’s your lot. If it’s not enough to be getting on with, you need to be thinking about buying tickets for Devizes Musical Theatre’s 9 to 5 at Dauntsey’s, which starts on Wednesday 29th. Have a great week, hope to see you around!

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 6th – 15th March 2023

Still a tad fragile around the edges from my birthday party, here’s what’s I’ve struggled on through to find for this coming week, in which I was, last week, perhaps somewhat too optimistic about the coming of spring. Pass the Alka-Seltzers…….

As usual, further info and links to everything listed can be found on our ever-updating event guide, likely the most comprehensive thang of its kind around these backwaters because we go hunting rather than waiting for venues and creative types to contact us; they can be terribly unreliable! Therefore to take heed of other event guides will see you either staying in to watch Catchphrase or nipping to your village hall for karaoke with a drunkard called Gav!

Firstly, today, Monday 6th sees a live art demonstration with the wonderful Caroline LeBourgeois at Devizes Conservative Club, and the first of Nick Beere’s Open Mic sessions at The Lamb, Marlborough.

Around About Dusk night at The Bell in Bath too, with some sultry femme vocalists, and they’ve left the coolest till last; Rachel from up tempo swing conspiracy Gin Bowlers, but this claims to be a jazzy hazy acoustic drift through the roots of the blues; noice!

Tuesday 7th. Congrats to the campaigners for a new skatepark in Bradford-on-Avon, who’ve raised their target of £250,000, and invite people to come and see the new skatepark designs on Tuesday 7th March – 7pm at St Margaret’s Hall. If heaven is a halfpipe, you’re ye fundraising gods, well done!

Blood Brothers is at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon; on the GCSE drama silly-bus this is – have fun, kids of the Lavingtons!

Wednesday 8th Western Players’ caravan comedy Third Week in August is at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tongue-in-chee[k]se Bristolian musical internationalism, Fromage en Feu are at The Bell, Bath; sacré bleu!

Regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes, after a Dark Side of the Moon anniversary celebration.

Thursday 9th At Pound Arts, Corsham, find Rachel Newton, a singer and harpist who draws on poems and ballads that are hundreds of years old, working them into her contemporary compositional style to create a rich sound that is ambitious, original, and unique.

Mark Harrison plays The Tuppenny, Swindon, while The Vic has new wave alt-rock Men in Vests, with The Crystal Wolf Project, Adriana, Lee Knott and N/SH.

Friday 10th, here we go, getting fresh for the weekend…… folk singer-songwriter David Ford brings his tour to the Pump, Trowbridge. Cara Dillon plays Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Radio Makers at The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon, while The Sad Dad Club play The Boathouse.

Saints of Sin at The Vic, Swindon, ZambaLando at Fiesta de Cuba.

Folk Law at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Green Day tribute Warning play the Tree House in Frome with The Blink 182 Show, while Limehouse Lizzy play the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 11th, got to be Editor’s Pick of the Week, when the Corn Exchange, Devizes hosts a Charity Concert for homeless charity, Devizes Opendoors. It features an incredible roster of Andrew Hurst, Chloe Jordan, and Will Blake with his PSG Choir. Tenner a ticket, to a wonderful charity, will be a lovely evening with a mahoosive raffle.

Staying in Devizes, The Wharf Theatre, tells the story of The Man Who Left the Titanic. White Star Line Managing Director J. Bruce Ismay stepped into a lifeboat and sailed away from the stricken ship, sailed away from his passengers, sailed away from the cries, and screams and tears. The Man Who Left The Titanic evokes that terrible voyage and asks whether Bruce Ismay only did what any of us might have done in the same circumstances, or should his actions that night consign his name to infamy? Was he a coward, or merely human?

New one on me, Rev plays The Three Crowns, Devizes, the Lightnin’ Hobos are at The Southgate, and DJ Karl Maggs is on the wheels of steel at the Exchange.

Psycho-Acoustic Coat, I’m hoping that speaks for itself! They’re at The Barge on Honey-Street.

Best of luck to the Lost Trades, touring their fantastic new album, they’re at Keevil Village Hall.

Marty’s Fake Family play The Pilot, Melksham, Junkyard Dogs at Chippenham & District Constitutional Club.

John D Relevator at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, while the Wiltshire Music Centre celebrates International Women’s Day with Bones Apart, a Wonder Women Family Concert.

Rorke’s Drift versus Black Rose at The Vic in Swindon.

Witchfest at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, with a witch’s market followed by Damh the Bard. Clash tribute, London Calling at The Tree House.

Sunday 12th sees My Science Fair at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, where the Gasoline Bandits play The Three Horseshoes. Matt Owens & Jason McNiff at The Bell, Bath.

Oops, Deb at The Southgate has let me know we left out Manos Puestas at 5pm at The Southgate, Devizes. Latin/Gypsy Jazz & Rumba to warm up your summer, and we have the power to update and add it, see?!

The Fureys at Wyvern Theatre, and Tom Houghton’s Absolute Shambles at Swindon Arts Centre.

Frome Symphony Orchestra at The Cheese & Grain.

Monday 13th, Westcountry acoustic blues with Stompin’ Dave & Lucy Piper at The Bell, Bath.

Macbeth at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 14th is Worsley Training’s Emergency First Aid at Work or Basic Life Support course at Devizes Town Hall.

Theatre director Andy Burden playing self-penned songs at The Bell, Bath, the Graham Dent Trio’s jazz night at il Fiume, Bradford-on-Avon.

Wednesday 15th and there’s Memory Cinema at Swindon Arts Centre, showing Dad’s Army.

Franz Nicolay & Aimless Arrows at The Pump in Trowbridge. Franz Nicolay is a musician and writer living in New York’s Hudson Valley. In addition to records under his own name, he was a member of cabaret-punk orchestra World/Inferno Friendship Society, “world’s best bar band” the Hold Steady, Balkan-jazz quartet Guignol, co-founded the composer-performer collective Anti-Social Music, was a touring member of agit-punks Against Me!

And there’s some world-folk into jazz, at The Bell, Bath with Solana.

And that’s your lot; unless you’ve forgotten to tell me something?! No secrets here, free listings too, all you gotta do is let us know; I’m not your mum, and can’t keep following you around picking up your lost socks.

Have a great week!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 1st – 7th March 2023

March on! Let’s say no more about the impending spring other than YES!!!! As you might be able to tell, I’m not a winter person. Here’s what we’ve found to be doing this coming week.…….

Find details and tickets links at our event calendar, and plan your month ahead. Watch out though, it’s always updating and more stuff is added all the time!

Wednesday 1st March, finds Harriet Burns’ ballads, bards and minstrels at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Wilson & Wakeman at Chapel Arts, Bath, and Spirit Of The Dance at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Regular acoustic night at The Southgate was amazing last week, just as they get everyone organised in a circle, another musician comes in the door! Happens every Wednesday.   

Thursday 2nd and there’s this Wiltshire Council Devizes drop in event to update on work to reduce anti-social behaviour in the town at the Corn Exchange. I had a whinge about this the other day, read here. Good idea as it sounds, it’s on during the morning when the people it really affects will be at school or college. I really feel our younger generation should be included in this, if I’m honest.

Anyway, find Magical Bones at Swindon Arts Centre, Paul McClure & Black Sheep Apprentice at The Tuppenny. Over in Bath, Brooks Williams & Boo Hewerdine’s State of The Union is at Chapel Arts.

Friday 3rd and The Exchange club in Devizes has its second open mic night, some talent down there last time. Well done to Ian for sorting this out, and heard good things about it.

Soul Strutters play The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, with Blazin’ Fiddles at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

Larkham & Hall feat: Charlie Rose at Chapel Arts, Bath, and the Shindig lot, always up for a party, have their Shimmy Discotheque with C’est Chic at Walcot House; squidgy house fun!

“ZambaLando” are live at Fiesta de Cuba in Swindon, where the Vic has Phantom Droid, Modern Evils and Froglord, and Sophie Duker’s Hag plays at Swindon Arts Centre.

Saturday 4th sees a Sustainable Devizes swap shop at St James Church.

Then, did I tell you about my 20th birthday?! Is it fair to make this Editor’s Pick of Week? Executive decision; ermm, let’s think, Ruzz Guitar, Talk in Code, Vince Bell, Deadlight Dance, Ben Borrill, yes, I think it’s perfectly fair!

Editor’s Pick of Week this week is the editor’s own inflated ego birthday bash at the Three Crowns, Devizes, but in fairness we have got free live music all day, where I’m hoping Ben will kick us off at around 4pm, and from there Vince is on at 5pm, Deadlight Dance at 6pm, Talk in Code at 7:30pm and Ruzz Guitar Trio from 9pm. Hopefully there will be some other guests, you are all welcome, bring cake. Note the pub is open as usual, this is NOT a private invite, you are welcome. Note, they serve food until 9pm, and it’s card-only at the bar, but bring some cash and we’ll have a whip round for the Devizes & District Opportunity Centre.

Over at the Wharf Theatre they’ve Olive Oatman for one night only, the story of an American woman celebrated in her time for her captivity and later release by Native Americans in the Mojave Desert region when she was a teenager.

Sad to have to miss Barrelhouse who play The Southgate. And DJ Stevie MC is at the Exchange.

Heading southwest, Triple JD Band play The Three Horseshoes in Bradford-on-Avon, and Jason Rebello & Tim Garland’s Life to Life is presented at Wiltshire Music Centre.

The Saviours Collective at Chapel Arts, Bath.

Sour Apple are at The Phoenix, Wotton Bassett. A karaoke warm-up for the My Dad festival, My Dad’s Wackier Than Your Dad! at The Castle, Swindon, Will Lawton & the Alchemists at The Hop Inn, Just Floyd at The Vic, Homer at The Sun in Coate, Showaddywaddy at the Wyvern Theatre, Eshaan Akbar: The Pretender at Swindon Arts Centre, Swindon

There’s an intimate evening with Zion Train at the Tree House in Frome, with The Beat featuring Ranking Junior at The Cheese & Grain.

Sunday 5th Avebury Spiritual and Psychic Fayre at Avebury Sports & Social Club from 10:30-4pm, free entry.

Wiltshire Hunt Saboteurs plan a protest at Devizes Police HQ from 1pm, to protest about the promotion of alleged fox hunter Cheryl Knight into the rural crime unit.

At 5pm, if I’m still standing, I’m invading The Southgate for 5pm, for the regular monthly Jon Amor residency with Jim Crawford as guest of honour.

Talis Kimberly plays The Tuppenny in Swindon.

The awesome Junkyard Dogs are at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, while WYJO with Jason Rebello and Tim Garland play at Wiltshire Music Centre.

Monday 6th I’ve found nothing, but you know, it is Monday! Whoa there, Nellie: update, a brand new open mic session at The Lamb in Marlborough has been announced, first one Monday 6th at 8pm. Facebook group here.

Tuesday 7th Blood Brothers at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

That’s your lot, have a great week and I hope to see you Saturday; you are permitted to buy me a pint, as long as it’s not semi-skimmed.

Looking forwards, you need to snap up a ticket for the Open Doors charity night at the Corn Exchange on Saturday 11th, support this great cause, and if you’ve never heard Chloe Jordan sing before you’re basically missing one of life’s most extraordinary occurrences.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 22nd – 28th February 2023

Last week of February, then; winter, do one! Lots going on as ever, so let’s not beat around the bush, because left to my devises I know I tend to waffle, and no one ever just stops me and gives it, “just get on with telling what’s happening, for crying out loud, man!”

I do need to say this though, as usual, more information and ticket links can be found at our ever-updating event calendar. If your event is not on there you didn’t tell us about it, no fault of mine! I do this shit for free, but I ain’t going to chase you up! Tell us about it next time, bring cake.

Wednesday 22nd and Visual Radio Arts stream one of our favourite bands on the circuit, Concrete Prairie, into the comfort of your own front room. If you’ve not seen this band before, do not miss this. Meanwhile it’ll be the regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Theatre Accord in association with The Production Exchange Ltd. Presents She at Swindon Arts Centre, charting the experiences of different women from childhood to old age, these stories, each with an intriguing twist, are visceral, poignant, and laced with humour.

Prue Leith’s Nothing in Moderation is at Bath Forum, with Grace Campbell’s A Show About Me(n) at Komedia.

Thursday 23rd sees an open mic at Stallards in Trowbridge.

National Theatre Live with Othello at Pound Arts, Corsham.

Concrete Prairie’s name crops up again, they’re with Cooper’s Creek at The Tuppenny, Swindon, while Kotonic and Failstate play the Vic, with a debut tour for comedian Chloe Petts at Swindon Arts Centre.

Tribute Local Cohen play the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, while Eleanor McEvoy is at Chapel Arts, Bath, “Swiftogeddon,” Taylor Swift club night at Komedia, and Michael Jackson tribute show at Bath Forum.

Regular children’s Music 4 Fun session at Brown Street, Salisbury.

Friday 24th Always a great night with the Celtic Roots Collective, who play The Pelican in Devizes.

Over in Trowbridge, chap-hopper Thomas Benjamin is at the Pump.

Native Harrow: Old Magic Tour at Pound Arts, Corsham.

The Jerry Lee Lewis Story at Chapel Arts, Bath, while The Fleetwood Mac Story is at Bath Forum, and cabaret night at Komedia with The Ministry Of Burlesque.

Riot Ensemble at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Gary Delaney’s Gary in Punderland comes to the Wyvern, Swindon, while tribute Dire Streets play Swindon Arts Centre, and Rush tribute Moving Pictures are at The Vic.

AC/DC tribute Livewire at The Cheese & Grain, Frome, and an intimate evening with Will Varley at The Tree House.

Saturday 25th and it’s Devizes Lions’ Fashion Show at the Devizes Conservative Club, Gardna arrives at The Muck & Dunder, Bone Chapel are at The Southgate, Scott Browne is at The Three Crowns, and Sour Apple play at The Lamb. The Wharf Theatre hosts the Apollo Theatre Company’s Ode to Joyce, about the songs and monologues of Joyce Grenfell.

As if there wasn’t enough to choose from in Devizes, I’m out of town for our Editor’s Pick of Week; Will Lawton and the Alchemists are at The Pump in Trowbridge, and it’s a double-whammy if I’ve correctly sussed the anagram of the support act; “Slotted Hearts!”

Hairy Stars at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Mickey Ace & The Wildcards play Melksham Rock n Roll Club, and Mixed Bag play The Pilot.

Phoenix River Band play Chapel Arts, Bath, while Suzanne Vega is at Bath Forum.

Ravers head for The Vic, Swindon, where Midlife Krisis crew are in effect, with a Diversify night.The Blind Lemon Experience play The Swiss Chalet.

Salisbury Arts Centre have Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood.

And a Retro Electro night at The Cheese & Grain, Frome completes our Saturday.

Sunday 26th sees Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club at the Wyvern, Swindon, while there’s a secret session at the Vic, with Mickelson.

Simon Brodkin’s Screwed Up is at Komedia, Bath.

Monday 27th sees Gigspanner Big Band play Swindon Arts Centre.

Tuesday 28th and KT Tunstall is at Bath Forum.

That’s all I got folks, tell us about anything we missed and I’ll slip it in! Don’t forget I’m getting close to 50, and that might mean it takes a little longer, but you’re all invited to laugh at me at the Three Crowns in Devizes on March 4th; oh yeah, we’ve got some amazing live music too, naturally.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 15th – 21st February 2023

Happy Valentine’s Day, hopelessly romantic yet gullible consumers. If you’ve any money left after your overpriced chocolates and cut-off plants purchases, here is what’s happening this coming week in Wiltshire.….

Snowdrops, though, to do my usual weather comment, I’ve seen snowdrops, and moths; is this spring already, or am I asking too much? But we can confirm, moth-action, sir, moth-action, bring on the warmer weather.

Also, as usual, details and links to everything listed here can be found on our event calendar, which scrolls through the future like a plutonium-fuelled DeLorean, so do go with it as if your name was Marty, for if you wait for this weekly update tickets for ticketed events might well have sold out.

Wednesday 15th sees the regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Recommended for children aged 5+ and their families, Squashbox Theatre presents a cosmic Journey to the Stars at The Neeld, Chippenham, while ex-special forces soldier and star of TV’s SAS: Who Dares Wins, Jason Fox’s talk, Life At The Limit is at the Wyvern, Swindon. This show also plays Bath Forum on Thursday.

Scottish band acclaimed for their dynamic, sonically adventurous post rock, Mogwai play Bath Forum, with comedy from Hal Cruttenden at Komedia; It’s Best You Hear It From Me.

Some Irish folk at Brown Street, Salisbury with Sharon Shannon.

Thursday 16th is opening night for Seend Fawlty Players’ production of the Frog Prince at Seend Community Hall. Their 43rd village pantomime runs till Saturday.

Fantasy Radio will be at The Three Crowns, Devizes. Comedy night at the Civic, Trowbridge.

Splat The Rat play The Tuppenny, Swindon, and Prue Leith’s Nothing In Moderation comes to the Wyvern; who knows you might be sitting next to baby-face Danny Kruger, nudging you and telling you it’s his mummy up there!

Ah, anyway, (I’m sorry, couldn’t resist it!) Over at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon we have The Bradfordian’s presentation of Fantastic Mr Fox. And staying on foxes, the aforementioned Jason Fox is at Bath Forum, Lissie at Komedia.

Friday 17th Trash Panda play The Bear, Marlborough, Bob Bowles at The Green Dragon.

Duran at Swindon Arts Centre, Dreamboys, ladies, Dreamboys I say, at the Wyvern!

It’s a big happy birthday to Ruzz Guitar, who plays at The Cheese & Grain, Frome with his full Blues Revue, Pete Gage, and The Real John Lewis as support; that will be something else; got to be editor’s pick of the week! All roads lead to Frome, though, as The Lost Trades play The Treehouse as well.

Alex Carson’s The Idiot Tour at Chapel Arts, The Musical Box at Bath Forum. Fleetwood Bac @ Salisbury Arts Centre.

Saturday 18th and it’s DOCA’s Festival of Winter Ales at The Corn Exchange Devizes; you’ll be like Charlie Bucket to find a golden ticket to this now, but good luck anyway! Staying in Devizes, The Eric Bell Band, due to play Long Street Blues Club has been postponed, and the amazing talent we witnessed as guest at the Southgate’s Jon Amor monthly residency last Sunday, Thomas Atlas brings his band from Birmingham, and that will be a brilliant swap. Talking Southgate, Black Nasty plays there.

Improvised comedy for one night only at the Wharf Theatre with Instant Wit, a bunch of very Unusual Suspects, forever on the run from the Comedy Police!

Find Ed Cox at Woodbrough Social Club.

Robbie Williams Live at Knebworth 20th Anniversary Tribute tour is screened at Melksham Assembly Hall. Sarah Keyworth’s Lost Boy at Pound Arts, Corsham. Homer play Westbury Cons Club. Tequila Mockingbird at Stallards in Trowbridge. Junkyard Dogs play The Three Horseshoes in Chapmanslade.

Stranglers tribute, Straighten Out at The Vic, Swindon, Click at The Swiss Chalet, and Six O’clock Circus at the New Century Club. Babatunde Aleshe’s Babahood at Swindon Arts Centre, Buddy Holly tribute show That’ll Be The Day at the Wyvern.

The Korgis Last ever complete performance Kartoon World at Chapel Arts, Bath, with Fairport Convention at Bath Forum, Clare Hammond at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

A Salisbury Live 2023 fundraiser, The Beggars Bash at Salisbury Arts Centre.

Judge Jules on the wheels of steel at The Cheese & Grain, Frome, while Eagles tribute The Alter Eagles are at The Tree House.

Sunday 19th sees Mr Griff at The Southgate, Devizes.

The Amazing Bubble Man at Swindon Arts Centre, Tap Factory at the Wyvern. Babatunde Aléshé’s Babahood tour moves over to Komedia, Bath.

Monday 20th Lord of the Rings in Concert at Bath Forum.

Tuesday 21st I’m Sorry I Haven’t a Clue at Bath Forum.

And that’s a wrap, folks, unless I missed anything, do let me know. Have a good week, don’t worry, be happy!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 8th – 14th February 2023

February, not hotting up much temperature-wise, nevertheless plenty of stuff going on across the county and beyond; here’s what we’ve found to satisfy your soul this week….

You know the score, no links here, find them on our event calendar – something you need to keep an eye on as it has been known to get updated from time to time! If we missed anything you told me about, I apologise, let me know and I can add it. If I missed anything you failed to tell me about, that’s your own lookout, but still, if you’re nice I might add it, but it will cost you a cupcake.

Let’s not mess about, Wednesday 8th sees the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes, an over 60s event at The Neeld, Chippenham, Macie J Kulakowski at the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Chris McCausland’s Speaky Blinder at Komedia, Bath, and a folk open mic at Brown Street, Salisbury.

On Thursday 9th we welcome back Devizes Film Club, who are setting up camp at The Wharf Theatre, tickets for the film, Minari have sold out, please note upcoming screenings, here.

Pound Arts in Corsham have a triple bill of folk, Flo Perlin, Daisy Chute and Fern Maddie.

The Tuppenny, Swindon, have one on my hitlist, Canute’s Plastic Army, with the wonderful Harmony Asia in support.

Phil Beer plays Chapel Arts, Bath, and Terence Blacker presents The Shock of the Old at Rondo Theatre.

Opening night for How The Other Half Loves at Salisbury Playhouse, running until 4th March.

Friday 10th sees the acoustic folk-indie project of now London-based but former Devizes resident Neil Phillimore, Brave New Broken Hearts Club come to St Johns in Devizes for a one-off gig with London folk poet-singer Pearl Fish. Previewed Here.

Upcoming bands battle it out for heat two of Take the Stage 2023 at The Neeld, Chippenham.

The Corsairs play The Bear in Marlborough.

Emily Breeze plays the Pump in Trowbridge for Sheer Music. You need to get in quick on any events at the Pump, they will sell out before you know what’s-what!

Guitar enthusiasts head for Swindon Arts Centre for a show celebrating 50 Years of Fender, while The Shudders play The Vic, with Celtic folkers Liddington Hill and Death is a Girl.

Aaron Azunda Akugbo plays Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Sara Pascoe appears at Bath Forum, while there’s a free indoor fest at Komedia, featuring Year of the Dog, Nookee, Drop in the Ocean, Ryan D’Auria and Bohosapiens, and at the Rondo Theatre there’s a play called Thirst, running over the weekend.

Jolyon Dixson & Steele play The Royal George in Salisbury, Break Cover are at Brown Street, and Jarlath Regan and Garrett Millerick’s Work in Progress at Salisbury Arts Centre.

Henge at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Start your Saturday 11th with some deliberation, as the Devizes Town Council Roadshow meets at The Market Place, 10am-1pm! In the evening, find Ben Borrill at The Three Crowns, and Junkyard Dogs at The Southgate.

Big Mama’s Banned play the Pilot, Melksham, Be Like Will play The Wiltshire Yeoman in Trowbridge, while The Worried Men are at the Pump.

Dave B & The Bop Won’t Stop presents The Ultimate Shakin’ Stevens Tribute at Chapel Arts, Bath, and there’s a West End Winter Show at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

If that’s not enough difficult decisions already, Don Letts is guest at The Cheese & Grain in Frome, as the Dub Pistols headline.

Find Six O’clock Circus at The Phoenix in Wotton Bassett, Thickcut play The Swiss Chalet in Swindon, and Bella Notte features Bel Canto, Belle Voci and Bella Musica in an evening of songs from shows and popular music in Everybody Sing at Swindon Arts Centre.

However, Editor’s Pick of Week will see us trek to Swindon, unless a serious hurricane-blizzard-tornado hits, where Adam Ant tribute Ant Trouble play the Vic. If you want a lift from Devizes, give me a shout, but you’ll have to help with my war-paint! I’ve been looking forward to this for ages, rekindling my youth with some ant music… we are the family!

Sunday 12th sees Bee-Gees tribute Jive Talkin at the Wyvern, while Tom Stade takes The High Road at Swindon Arts Centre.

Phil Cooper is live in Session at The Electric Bar, at Komedia in Bath, while comedian Lloyd Griffith’s One Tonne of Fun play the main hall. Eliza Carthy & The Restitution’s 30th Anniversary tour comes to the Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

On Monday 13th Strictly Come Dancing champion Giovanni Pernice invites you to join him on a journey to his homeland for his production of Made in Italy at the Wyvern, Swindon.

Tuesday 14th sees The Classic Rock Show at the Wyvern, Swindon. Bath Phil & Jeneba Kanneh-Mason at Bath Forum and Future Cavemen at Komedia.

Into The Future…..

That’s all for this week folks, should be something to please everyone there, I think, but nothing will beat some kings of the wild frontier in my honest opinion!

Do scroll through the event calendar, some things you should take note of; Devizes Winter of Festival Ales is near-sold out, you best hurry. Seend Community Centre sees it 43rd village pantomime, The Princess & The Frog start on Thursday 16th and runs the Friday and Saturday.

Friday 17th in Frome, though, with birthday boy Ruzz Guitar at The Cheese & Grain, featuring The Real John Lewis and Peter Gage, and over the road, The Lost Trades play The Treehouse; wowzers! Talking of birthdays and Ruzz, don’t forget, Devizes people, not only is Ruzz playing his own birthday, he’s playing mine too! All welcome on March 4th to the Three Crowns where we’ll have a daytime open mic, the fantabulous Talk In Code will playing too and you can laugh at me reaching the half-century mark.

Spoiled for choice in Devizes on Saturday 18th, Thin Lizzy founder and guitarist Eric Bell arrives at Long Street Blues Club, head-to-head with Devizes Festival of Winter Ales, fantastic improv comedy with Instant Wit at The Wharf Theatre; decisions, decisions, but you need to make your mind up and get tickets, though if you fail, Black Nasty is at our trusty Southgate.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 1st – 7th February 2023

Thank the heavens we can kick January out of the door! It’s been a warmer week though, hasn’t it? Still wouldn’t reach for the Hawaiian shirts and straw sunhats just yet. The weather is a tease, loves to give you a taster of the potential of the coming season, then reverts without warning or the slightest concern that you risked lobbing your thermal long-johns in the wash!

Some people prefer winter though, apparently; weirdos! Here’s what we’ve found to do in Wiltshire for the rest of us; hermits stay in, covered in blankets, re-watching Wednesday and praying into a bag of cheesy puffs for season two! Get a life, Wiltshire is not a cultureless void, see below if you don’t believe me!

Links and details can be found on our event calendar: here. Just takes ages adding them in here a second time; ain’t nobody got time f’ dat!

Ladies Day continues at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes until Saturday 4th all sold out now, but the next production hosts improvised comedy Instant Wit, for one day and that day being 18th February. Not forgoing the welcome return of Devizes Film Club showing the 2020 film Minari, about a Korean-American family moving from California to a remote Arkansas farm in search of their own American dream. That is on Friday 9th February.

Pinch, punch, Wednesday 1st February it will be then, and Trowbridge’s Pump celebrates Independent Venue Week with The Howlers, Langkamer and Mumble Tide.

Regular acoustic jam at The Southgate, Devizes.

Seventh Avenue Arts presents Simon & Garfunkel Through the Years at Pound Arts, Corsham. Danny Baker’s Sausage Sandwich Tour comes the Wyvern, Swindon.

The Greatest Magician continues until 4th at Rondo Theatre, Bath, and staying in Bath, Monkey Bizzle meets The Scribes Komedia, Flats & Sharp at Chapel Arts, and Junior Bill at The Bell.

Thursday 2nd Quiz Night at The Devizes Literary & Scientific Institute in aid of Devizes & District Food Bank by Devizes Labour Party.

Moon plays The Vic in Swindon, Truck at The Tuppenny. Ben Portsmouth’s This is Elvis 2023 Tour at the Wyvern, and Limehouse Lizzy at Swindon Arts Centre.

Brennan Reece’s Crowded come to Rondo Theatre, Bath, and for music, find Del Barber & Band at Chapel Arts.

Still Moving DJs at Salisbury Arts Centre, Open Mic at The Winchester Gate, and Jamie Lingham’s regular From The Book at Brown Street, Salisbury.

Friday 3rd and it’s Potterne Cricket Club’s Quiz Night at Potterne Village Hall.

While revellers descend on Weston-Super-Mare for the Incider Festival, Jaz Delorean is at The Pump, Trowbridge, but I believe is near sold out, you’ll need to be quick, or own a time machine for this one!

A new regular feature at The Barge on Honey Street, open mic session continues Friday.

Sophie Duker’s Hag at Pound Arts, Corsham, Phoenix Dance Presents ‘We Are Connected’ at The Neeld, Chippenham.

In the top three flamenco guitarists in the world, Juan Martin is at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Malaya Blue Band at Chapel Arts in Bath, some Impromptu Shakespeare at Rondo Theatre, and David O’Doherty’s Whoa is Me at Komedia.

Wow; Fairport Convention play the Wyvern in Swindon, with Lucy Porter’s Wake Up Call at Swindon Arts Centre. Dohny Jep headlines a triple at The Vic, with Nervendings and Riviera Arcade.

Cressers Last Stand’s The Growing up Tour at Brown Street, Salisbury, while The Jonny Phillips Trio play the Winchester Gate.

Saturday 4th, The Shudders come to The Southgate, Devizes, (Update: The Shudders can’t make it on Saturday. To the rescue, they have laid back dude Grizzly Rhys Morgan at The Southgate instead,)while Devizes Scooter Club hold a Back to the 80’s Party at The Cavalier. But the concentration in Devizes should focus on The Corn Exchange, where we are thinking green. Make a hot-water bottle at Devizes Library during the day, and bring it to the Wiltshire Climate Alliance fundraiser with Seize the Day; preview here. Editor’s Pick of the week? Could be!

Damm! play The Bear, Marlborough, meanwhile it will be Vyv & Jackie’s farewell at The Lamb, after over an incredible 43 years they’re retiring and we wish them all the very best. A solemn occasion it refuses to be, as Pants will out! If you don’t know what that means, I suggest you read undoubtedly the funniest interview we’ve ever done, with Pants, last week. Got to be Editor’s Pick of The Week, if Seize the Day is too, I can’t decide this week!

Phoenix Dance presents a second night of ‘We Are Connected’ at The Neeld, Chippenham.

Still Marillion play The Vic, Swindon, with One Chord Wonders at the Queens Tap, The Bellflowers at The Tuppenny, Homer at The Swiss Chalet, and Six O’clock Circus at Coleview Centre. Troy Hawke’s Sigmund Troy’d at the Wyvern, and Paul Foot at Swindon Arts Centre.

Stray Dogs will be ‘Unleashed’ for a Charity Gig for The Music Man Project at Burdall’s Yard, Bradford-on-Avon.

The Roy Orbison Experience at Chapel Arts, Bath, with Akasha at The Bell.

From 11am, Drag Queen Story Time at The Winchester Gate, while the evening in Salisbury gets punked, with Carsick headlining at foursome at Brown Street with Who Ate All the Crayons, Lucky Number Seven, and Seaside Glamour.

Staying punk, The Cheese & Grain hosts the Frome Punk Fest.

Sunday 5th and if you’ve achieved nothing over the weekend all is not lost, the monthly Jon Amor Trio residency at The Southgate, Devizes at around about 5pm, with guest Thomas Atlas.

Also, Julian Gaskell & His Ragged Trousered Philanthropists are at The Bell, Bath, while Stephen Lynch’s The Time Machine Tour arrives at Komedia.

The Psychology of Serial Killers at the Wyvern, Swindon, wraps up our weekend, but do keep a check on the calendar, for updates and planning.

Monday is Monday, not a lot going on. Do a jigsaw puzzle or something.

Tuesday 7th is the Wyvern Theatre Swap Shop at the Wyvern in Swindon, Randy Feltface’s Feltopia at Komedia, Bath, and Wiltshire College FE Student Showcase Samphire at Salisbury Playhouse.

Have a great week, behave yourself, within reason, and don’t forget to keep up-to-date with our calendar, for next week sees aforementioned return of Devizes Film Club, now based at The Wharf Theatre, a triple bill of folk at Pound Arts, Canute’s Plastic Army & Harmony Asia at The Tuppenny, Swindon, Emily Breeze at the Pump, the second stage of Take the Stage 2023 at The Neeld, in which we wish Nothing Rhymes with Orange the best of luck, 50 Years of Fender at Swindon Arts Centre, Ben Borrill at The Three Crowns, Devizes with Junkyard Dogs at The Southgate, and Big Mama’s Banned at the Pilot, Melksham, Adam Ant tribute Ant Trouble at the Vic, the Dub Pistols with Don Letts The Cheese & Grain, Frome, and so much more!

Trust other websites or Facebook pages with what’s to do and you’ll miss truckloads; Devizine is the only one around these darkened backwaters to collate them all; give the man a Twix.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 11th-17th January 2023

Well into new year and things are building up again slowly, let’s have a little looky at what’s going on locally over this coming week, if you fancy going out to beat the January blues….

As usual, details and links can be found on our updating event calendar; keep checking for future dates, and, some events for this week will inevitably crop up and I don’t often update them on these articles, only on the calendar. 

Wed 11th and I am assuming there will be the regular Acoustic Jam at The Southgate, Devizes. Meanwhile, at the Bell in Bath you can find the Dusk Art Rhythm Quartet.

Thursday 12th is the opening night for Beauty & The Beast, running until the 15th at The Rondo Theatre, Bath. Never too late for a panto!

Mark Farrelly, who you might recall as the creator of Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope, as seen at Devizes Arts Festival last year, has a play at Swindon Arts Centre. It’s a tribute to Frankie Howerd, called Howerd’s End.

Staying in Swindon, Canute’s Plastic Army play The Beehive, Swindon, while UK Pink Floyd Experience is at Wyvern.

Friday 13th might be unlucky for some, but not if you like Chicago blues and you live in Devizes. Editor’s Pick of The Week this week takes us to the Long Street Blues Club, where direct from the US of A, Billy Branch presents at night of Chicago Living Legends, Jamiah Rogers, and John Primer.

Suitable for ages 10+, Living Spit’s Puss in Boots– More Than A Feline comes to The Neeld in Chippenham, which contains a small amount of strong language and awful puns.

Outrageous comedy at Pound Arts, Corsham with Simon Brodkin’s Screwed Up Tour.

One local band to watch out for, Here Come the Crows, they play the Vic, Swindon, while the Calling Planet Earth show is at the Wyvern, a new romantic symphony that goes on a journey through one of the greatest musical eras of all time, the electrifying 80’s. Obviously, I’m far too young to remember that!

Oh, and Absolute Bowie at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 14th and you’ll find Finley & Mark at The Three Crowns, Devizes, and Celtic folk at The Southgate with the Cooper Creek Band.

The Buttmonkies at Stallards in Trowbridge, Legacy at the Pilot in Melksham.

For alt-rock, Britpop, and a dash of punk, check out Static Moves at The Pelican Inn in Froxfield.

Lauren Housley & Nigel Wearne play Chapel Arts, Bath.

Find His Way- The Frank Sinatra Story at The Neeld, Chippenham.

The Beehive in Swindon has an Open-Deck Vinyl Night, while Sister Sister play The Swiss Chalet, and Martin Kemp DJs an eighties set at MECA, plus, there’s a Rapport CIC Performance at Swindon Arts Centre called The Suitcase.

Sunday 15th and The Neeld is the company of Charlie Hides with some Comedy Drag Bingo, while Circus of Horrors: Haunted Fairground is at the Wyvern, Swindon.

For Bath-centric folk instrumental, find The Barton Street Regulators at The Bell, Bath.

Monday 16th sees the first instore session at Sound Knowledge, Marlborough, as Rozi Plain comes to play an intimate set.

Riaan Vosloo’s Uphill Game play The Bell, Bath.

And Tuesday I got nought, so far, save the first councillor’s surgery at Devizes Town Hall from 6pm, with Devizes Town councillors Chris Gay and Ian Pennington.

Unless I missed anything? Do let us know!

By now you should be thinking about tickets for Bradford Roots Music Festival at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, happening next Saturday 21st, The line-up can be found HERE. There’s also The Neeld’s Take The Stage happening next weekend. At the end of the month The Wharf Theatre’s production of Ladies Day, and lots more good, good stuff happening as ever, but you’ll only find them all collated and neatly folded together as one on Devizine!

 Have a great weekend!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 21st December 2022 – New Year’s Eve!

Okay let’s get this out there before the kids munch through all the Quality Street, and have a double whammy Christmas and New Year run down of everything (we’ve found so far) happening around these parts over the yuletide; I feel like the Radio Times for live local entertainment!

But first, allow me take to take this opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year…. I hope you are all on the good list. Find all links and further details on our event calendar, and keep scrolling to plan ahead and scan for updates, they do occasionally happen!

Sustainable Devizes’ The Advent{ure} Reuse Christmas continues at The Little Green, Devizes until Christmas Eve.

Wednesday 21st is Winter Solstice, for sunset at 16:00, and sunrise on Thursday at 7:30. See here for advice if visiting Stonehenge or Avebury. Meanwhile Andy will be on the piano at The Barge on Honey-Street for some carols.  And you’ll find The Hammervilles at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Thursday 22nd Melksham Assembly Hall hold The Polar Express Pyjama Party.

Fin & Mark entertain at The Condado Lounge, Devizes, while Matt Owens & The Delusional Vanity Project play the Tuppenny, Swindon, and Far Cue attend the Three Horseshoes Bradford-on-Avon.

Friday 23rd Illingworth play The Three Crowns, Devizes, while One trick Pony takes over the Southgate for a Ugandan Children Centre fundraiser, with the promise of an afterparty with nibbles and funky disco. Talking funky, Funked Up play the Pelican Inn, while it’s the Long Street Blues Club’s Christmas party with Gee Baby I Love You. Any of these options can be washed down with a stint at The Exchange nightclub, where Stevie MC is behind the wheels of steel for an Ugly Christmas Jumper retro party night till 2am.

Outside of Devizes I’ve not got much to offer you, Rave Against the Machine play The Vic in Swindon, ska punk outfit Operation 77 will be at The Lamb in Marlborough, while Marchella are down The Wellington.

Pogues tribute, The P’Hogues are at Frome’s Tree House, Frenzy at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Saturday 24th, Christmas Eve finds 12 Bars Later at The Crown in Bishops Cannings, (UPDATED: Blondie & Ska have stepped in last minute as 12 Bars couldn’t make it) and a Christmas Eve party with DJ Lynx in the mix at The Exchange, Devizes. Illingworth play Old Town’s The Royal Oak in Swindon.

Sun 25th is Christmas day, and all silent night, enjoy your Brussel sprouts!

Our calendar from Monday 26th to Friday 30th has also drawn pretty much a blank to-date, hence while I’m getting the fortnight over and done with one big shebang today! Play it safe if protesting against Boxing Day fox hunts in Lacock or elsewhere. Find details for the protest at Lacock HERE.

Live music can be found at The Beehive in Swindon on Wednesday 28th with the Experimental Blues Orchestra, and on Thursday 29th with The Shudders, both start at 8.30pm.

Kick back into the live music action in Devizes on Friday 30th when Jon Amor plays The Southgate, and then it’s……

New Year’s Eve, Saturday 31st, and we’ve lots to get through, obviously. Seend Community Centre win my Editor’s Pick of the Week, even if it’s a fortnight special, where the Train to Skaville will be boarding. You need to get tickets for this steaming New Year’s Eve ska social.

Meanwhile in Devizes, DJ Andy Saunders is at The Conservative Club, there’s Glitzy New Year’s Eve Karaoke Party at The Pelican, and Plan of Action play The Crown at Bishop’s Cannings. Then, it’s all fancy dress at the Exchange with DJ Lynx.

Here’s what we’ve also found round-and-about for seeing in 2023, Get Carter play the Consti Club, Chippenham, while The Salutation Inn have a NYE party.

NYE disco party at The Civic in Trowbridge, and a party at The Wiltshire Yeoman too.

The Tuppeny in Swindon hos a New Year’s Eve Party, and that’s all we know about in Swindon.

Shindig Festival takes over Club Lomah in Bath for a Shimmy Discotheque.

No Middle Ground play The Burbage British Legion, the reBBels play Mere Social Club. Paul Jude Wilson is live at The George Inn, Middle Wallop.

New Year’s Eve Parties at The Lord Nelson, Marshfield, Players Traditional Carvery, Westbury, and The Packhorse, Larkhill.

Subgiant at The Winchester Gate, Salisbury, while The Deloreons play Salisbury Arts Centre, and find Miss Chief and the Makers at The Old Ale & Coffee House, and a NYE party at Ox Row.

In Frome the Foo Fakers and Nirvanot tributes play the Tree House, while The Hammervilles take the Cheese & Grain’s New Year’s Eve party.

If we missed something, let us know, for now though, we’re into 2023, happy new year, see you on the other side. Event organisers, your new year’s resolution should be to inform Devizine of your events, and don’t make us come looking for you!

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Illingworth Celebrate Their 100th Gig!

Salisbury-based acoustic rock duo John Illingworth Smith and Jolyon Dixon play The High Post Golf Club, between Amesbury and Salisbury this Friday 2nd December, and celebrate that it’s their 100 gig.

Although the duo had been collaborating musically for over three decades, gigs dried out proir to 2019, and they stopped, as Jolyon vaguely explained, “for one reason or another!”

He told of how around the Christmas peroid of that year, “John and I were chatting about how we missed doing gigs, wondering if we should maybe get a set together and have go at performing again as a duo.”

“We wasn’t certain if anyone would want to listen,” Jolyon continued, “if we could actually get any gigs at all, or even how to get the songs working with just the two of us playing.” Today it’s still a wonder to us how they manage such a gorgeous sound as a duo, but they do! At Bishop’s Cannings’ CrownFest this summer they stole the stage following two heavy rocks bands, and to see Illingworth stamp their mark on a cover as technical as Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here, or The Beatles’ Hey Jude, is something really special.

To maintain a pub circuit, Illingworth have mastered the cover scene with a plethora of memorable and sing-along rock classics, but neither are they strangers to creating originals, knocking out two breathtaking albums to date. This is where their relationship with Salisbury’s Tunnel Rat studio producer, Eddie Prestidge, comes in handy.

“Our good friend Eddie encouraged us to give it a try,” Jolyon said, “offered to become our manager and handle the bookings. So, we gladly accepted and sure enough we got our first booking in February 2020, with several more following soon after. Of course, early in March the lockdowns started and we couldn’t go out and play. We were gutted, but, undeterred we used the time to make a new album of original songs and we did gigs whenever the restrictions allowed.”

“Well, this weekend will be our 100th gig, So we would just like to say thank you so so much to all the excellent venues that have booked us, the weddings, parties, festivals, celebrations and absolutely everyone who has come to see us along the way! It’s been an absolute blast getting to this point. We still love doing what we do, and hope to make it to our 200th gig!”

With the trajectory these guys are flying on, I estimate that’ll be around spring! What more of an apt venue name, then, for their 100th gig than the High Post?! But seriously, these guys could bring joy to punters and provide a cracking night to any pub. I’d wager they could even raise the morale of the Queen Vic in Eastenders given half a chance!

Congratulations to John, Jolyon and Eddie, and hope to catch you again soon, guys.

Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 17th – 23rd November 2022

Got a proper soaking this morning, fat lot of good it is whinging to you about it, you are here only for the lowdown on autumn happenings this coming week, so I’ll waste no time waffling, don’t worry about me, yeah, yeah, I’ll be fine!

Currently up and running, until Saturday, is TITCO’s Dinner Party at The Wharf Theatre.

Staying in Devizes, Thursday 17th sees the opening of the historic event, Devizes Eisteddfod. Here’s the place to find future local stars of the arts, a five-day festival of over 400 classes of music, speech, drama, dance, writing, art, photography, and composition, for people of all ages, who may enter individually or through a school or group. There are competitive and non-competitive classes. The Music, Speech and Drama classes will be held in Devizes Town Hall. Find out more HERE.

Over in Bradford-on-Avon, check out Dylan Smith who has an official launch gig for his Cruel to be Kind album at The Boathouse.

Also find Ezio playing Chapel Arts, Bath. And for some doom metal and stoner rock, try a double-header at The Vic, Swindon, with Phantom Droid and Dark Prophecy.

Friday 18th is Marlborough’s Christmas Light Switch-On.

After The Rocky Horror Experience, Soul II Soul’s Feel Free Tour comes to Meca. Yes, I said Soul II Soul, wowzers! But if you’ve no tickets get in or check the alternatives in Swindon; The Beverley May Band at The Sun Inn, Coate, Splat the Rat play The Hop Inn for Swindon Folk Club.

In Devizes, it’s pub quiz time in aid of Arts Together at the Cavalier, and I’ve got to recommend the highly entertaining Blondie & Ska duo, who play The Pelican. Chippenham duo, as it says on the tin, do Blondie covers but also include those Two-Tone classics, in a kind of fashion you’d wished Blondie covered them; it’s lots of fun. In fact, it was going to be editor’s pick of the week! UPDATE: sorry to hear this has been cancelled. Postponed until 3rd February.

Drag Show at the Neeld, Chippenham, with The Dazzling Diamonds. Limehouse Lizzy at Salisbury Arts Centre.

After N’Famady Kouyate at Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon, they’ve got something on my hitlist, the acclaimed Moments of Pleasure, a Kate Bush tribute. Meanwhile, it’s bonkers at The Three Horseshoes with a triple bill of Hell Death Fury, Lone Sharks, & Monkish.

Craig Charles is on the wheels of steel at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, while Richard Norris plays sister venue, The Tree House.

Saturday 19th, kids, Lego Club, at Chippenham Museum from 3-4pm. I know I keep mentioning this regular event, but I love the sound of it, wish there was a Lego club when I was a kid, and well, I might go one day anyway. My own kids will be like, “dad, I need a lift to my science book writer’s guild annual general meeting,” and I’ll be like, “fat chance, I’m off to Lego Club!”

Find handmade jewellery, woodwork, hand-poured candles, scented soap, artwork, and handbags at the Mynt Image Craft Fair at Devizes Corn Exchange from 10am-4pm. And in the evening find the Hardwicke Circus and The Alex Voysey Trio at Long Street Blues Club; upcoming talent Saturday, sounds tempting, very tempting! UPDATE: being our Editor’s pick of the season has been postponed, this isnew Editor’s pick of week!

The Southgate promises folky blues with S’Go, a new one on me; Deborah tells me, “They’re an eclectic folky blues collective. They played a few crazy tunes in a circle in the middle of the pub once. Everyone loved it, we booked them!” Cannot argue with that. Ye gods, that sounds tempting, very tempting too, what am I to do?!

Night Jar play Woodbrough Social Club, Miranda Sykes’ Show of Hands is at Marlborough Folk Roots, at the Town Hall, and the local favourites, Humdinger play The Lamb, Marlborough.

There’s a Trowbridge Weavers Christmas Market, and Gaz Brookfield plays the Pump, with Heartwork and Be Like Will in support, but I believe it’s sold out, check their website, but be quick on the flux capacitor. You could always head to the Somerset Arms, Semington failing that, where you’ll find The Beverley Maye Band, or The Buckly Rage at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

The wonderful seven-piece soul band, aptly named Blue Soul Band play the Contsti, in Chippenham, tributes The Faux Fighters at The Vic, Swindon and Coldplace at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Jessica Fostekew’s Wench runs at Salisbury Arts Centre, and that’s your Saturday night.

Sunday 20th. I’ve checked this over and over, and it definitely says, Jazz Sabbath is at the Corn Exchange, Devizes on Sunday, are we sure it’s not Saturday, people? Damn your eyes, that’s a school night!

Also occurring, Wiltshire Youth Jazz Orchestra with Huw Warren at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, Clinton Baptiste tour at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, after a record fair, and tribute L1nkn P4rk at The Vic, Swindon.

And that’s your lot, I got nought for Monday and Tuesday, but don’t forget it’s the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate Devizes on Wednesday, 23rd, and Richard Robbins presents Passage of Time at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon, there’s a Willow Reindeer Festive Workshop beginning at Salisbury Arts Centre, which runs until 30th, and Matt Deighton is at The Tree House in Frome.

The biggies next week are of course, the Winter Festival and lantern parade in Devizes, Friday, and the start of the Window Wanderland. Saturday sees the second feast at Soup Chick, of Kashmir cuisine, and The Scribes come to Devizes, at the Muck & Dundar. We love the Scribes here at Devizine and are thoroughly looking forward to this; get a ticket!

John Otway at the Pump, Trowbridge on Friday, and The Moscow Drug Club on Saturday, both worthy of your attention. Then, gawd blimey, it’ll be December. I’m trying to keep up and update as regularly as possible, including getting the biggies up for next year. Have a great weekend, keep a check on our event calendar for updates, and planning ahead.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 26th Oct – 2nd Nov 2022

So, Rishi Sunak is prime minister, eh, how about that for diversity? Last time, a woman, of sorts, now an Asian chap. A tax-avoiding billionaire Asian chap with a name which sounds like a brand of orange fizzy-pop, but one nonetheless. You’ve got to wonder who it’ll be next week.

My money is on a Klingon, but I must commend the Tories, seems they’re not quite as prejudice as Nazis after all. It doesn’t matter, age, gender, race or religion; providing you’re working class they’ll shit on all of us from a-high, but with a degree of equality.

It would’ve been nice if Liz Truss could’ve stuck around for another week, if only for topical pumpkin carving purposes, because yes, it is the ancient American-over-commercialised Gaelic feast of Samhain, or Halloween to Christian cultural thieves.

After a family outing to pick our own pumpkins on a farm near Rowde in torrential rain last Saturday, confirming I married into a rural family, and kids who consider themselves too matured to trick or treat, I’d like to go out on creepy tiles (see editor’s pick of the week) but tickets are being grabbed fast, and I’m not sure how I’ll feel by the weekend after being brutally attacked last Saturday by a hanging basket.

Where were Wiltshire Police when the attack took place, you cry? Nowhere to be seen, that’s where. Typical, and that hanging basket is still at large somewhere, be warned. Needless to say, I sustained a surprisingly substantial head injury, though not the reason I’m talking complete toilet; I’m always like this.

I did manage to see a doctor. After a reply I pre-empted to be a telephone appointment sometime in May 2023, going by social media rants, I was invited to Southbroom surgery faster than I could change out of my Paddington jimmy-jams, and within the hour I was let back on the street. Not forgoing I retain a sore head with bolts of pain shooting through it upon the slightest of movement, but I’m after no sympathy. It’s the worry of 50 coming like a rocket over the hill at me. Any previous age and I’d have been, like, ah, just a bump to the noggin, be right as reign come morning. But now, any slight aliment and I’m drafting my bucket list; though I’d suspect Kylie Minogue won’t respond favourably in any case.

Onwards with what’s happening this creepy weekend, before I dose myself in more paracetamol. As usual the only link you need for more info and tickets is our event calendar HERE. If there’s stuff going on I’ve not mentioned below, stay tuned to the guide as I might yet update it through the week, and if it’s your event I missed, that’s likely because you didn’t tell me about it.

Wednesday 26th, and it’s the White Horse Opera’s opening night of L’elisir d’amore at Lavington School, which runs until 29th. And the Rondo Theatre, Bath has Female Transport, also running the same dates.

On Thursday 27th Devizes Lgbtq+ hold their Drag Queen Bingo, Halloqueen Edition at The Exchange in Devizes, which was a sell-out last time, so get in quick.

Find reggae at Level III, Swindon with the Erin Bardwell Three, and Grim Slickers at The Vic.

Friday 28th, Halloween Family Disco at The Neeld, Chippenham. LGBTQ+ Halloween night at The Exchange, Devizes.

Violin, rapper and loop artist, Mike Dennis is at The Pump, Trowbridge.

Bit confused as I’ve a poster from the Specialised Project, advertising Monkey Ska at the Vic, Swindon, but listings show Getrz, Vicuals and I See Orange playing there too, so perhaps the first one has been cancelled, unsure. The Terraplanes Blues Band play the Rolleston Arms, though, that much I do know!

Also find Barnstormers Comedy at Salisbury Arts Centre, Muze at The Tree House, Frome, while The Freddie & Queen Experience are at the Cheese & Grain.

Saturday 29th, everything is awesome at Chippenham Museum’s Lego Club, 3-4pm every Saturday. It’s Autumn in the Park at Hillworth in Devizes, see poster, and St John’s Michaelmas Fayre too.

Getting very Halloween now, with Halloween Karaoke at The Pelican Inn, Devizes, Devizes Scooter Club’s Skalloween at the Cavalier, a Halloween party with DJ James Therelfall at the Muck & Dunder, Thriller Halloween party at the Exchange, and The Monster Ball at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Kind of optional creepy fancy dress at Editor’s Pick of The Week: The Female of the Species 7th Annual Fundraising Gig at Seend Community Hall.

Tickets are going like hot cakes for this annual extravaganza from our lovely all-female local supergroup, now packing a punch at Seend, so get in quickly, it is always an amazing show.

Away from Halloween vibes, those masters of vintage blues, Barrelhouse play The Southgate, Devizes, Trash Panda, The Bastard Son of Humdinger & My Mate’s Band play The Coppers Arms, Pewsey. Strange Folk at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon.

Stop Stop at The Vic, Swindon, Judas Rising at the Rolleston.

Congress at Salisbury Cathedral, Spritato – Inspiring Bach at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon. Oh, and The Lightning Seeds play The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Sunday 30th, The Innes Sibun Band arrive at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, guaranteed knockout.

Spooky stuff continues as Monday 31st is the opening night for Picnic at Hanging Rock at The Wharf Theatre, Devizes; of which I’m hoping to get a review of out by Monday, or Tuesday latest. Running until 5th November, preview here.

And we’re into November, Wednesday 2nd don’t forget, acoustic jam at the Southgate, Devizes, and Jordan Bak is at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford-on-Avon.

Keep on scrolling for future fings to do, hopefully I’ll join you real soon, hanging basket though, I ask you, evil hanging basket; why can’t they just plant flowers in the ground like normal folk? They should be brought to justice! Have a good week, the doctor told me to stay off devices and screens, so I’m outta here, going to take up badminton instead, which is an extreme sport to me!

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 28thSept– 4th Oct 2022

Here we go for this coming week, excuse me for not waffling, really not in the mood. Oh, okay, just one whinge then, if you insist!

It’s just the power-hungry draconian admin of Facebook groups, again. Now I’ve been banned from “The Devizes Issue,” not to be confused with “Devizes Issues” which I’ve been banned from for yonks, and “Devizes Issue,” “Devizes Issues (but better,)” “Devizes Got Issues,” “The Issues in Devizes,” or any other originally titled local Facebook group. One has to wonder if there’s really that many issues in Devizes which warrants so many Facebook groups with the words “Devizes” and “Issues,” or perhaps, just perhaps, that there is the very issue in Devizes; can’t we all just get along?!  

I was banned for sharing our article about an upcoming comedy show by Devizes Arts Festival, likely because the headline comedian was the guy who handed Theresa May a P45. With the Gazelle & Herod concentrating on The Jeremy Kyle Show returning to some TV channel no one’s heard of, media here highlighting all the good stuff going down locally is becoming increasingly limited, and Facebook groups are untrustworthy, ask the town council! So, stick around, and I’ll get onto what’s happening shortly.

First you should know, is, more info and ticket links to everything listed, and for planning ahead, the one link you need is our updating event calendar, or least two links this week as we delve headlong into October.

Wednesday 28th there’s a Lunchtime Recital at Wyvern Theatre, Swindon.

Sustainable Devizes will at St Andrew’s Church for a free community film screening on the story of plastics. Starting at 7, I’ll drop the poster below.

Thursday 29th and there’s a Jazz Social at Salisbury Arts Centre, the ultimate music quiz at The Cheese & Grain, Frome. The Lawrence Society of Art begins an art exhibit at Devizes Town Hall, free entry, running until Saturday 1st October.

Friday 30th September, the exceptionally talented Adam Woodhouse is at the Pelican Inn, Devizes, while those Somerset crazy folked up hip hoppers Monkey Bizzle bring the noise to The Southgate; this is a hilarious show, throw preconceptions aside and join the fun.

Jen Brister’s The Optimist is at Pound Art in Corsham, while you can find The Music of Carole King at the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon, and the regular Barnstormers Comedy at Salisbury Arts Centre.

Stay Lunar play The Vic, Swindon, The Toasters play The Tree House, Frome, with Toyah at The Cheese & Grain. Illingworth play The Royal George in Salisbury.

Pinch punch and build, Saturday 1st October sees the regular Lego Club at Chippenham Museum from 3-4pm, but real Lego enthusiasts should head to Steam, Swindon, for The Great Western Brick Show. Happening Sunday too, and always amazing!

The Brook Street Band come to St Mary’s Devizes for some Kaffeehaus Culture, expect some Bach, Handel & Telemann.

Meanwhile, editor’s pick of the week comes from Icarus Theatre Collective, who bring a touring, award-winning dark comedy to The Wharf Theatre, called The Lesson.

Icarus’ blistering, magical and award-winning production of Eugene Ionesco’s classic dark comedy returns to the stage, following sold out runs at Teatrul de Comedie in Bucharest, among others. A mild-mannered professor takes on a new pupil, and swiftly descends into tyranny, becoming bent on her destruction. A comically surreal exposé about power, knowledge & those who hoard both…. but that’s not only why I’m picking this as my pick of the week.

Performances are enhanced by a bold projection design that features exciting new Creative Captioning Technology, which is supported by Arts Council England. It ensures that every performance is now accessible to deaf and hard of hearing audiences as well as enhancing the creative story and encapsulating the beating heart of Ionesco’s text; which is a fantastic initiative I hope will find its way to more productions.

If some mod covers are more your thing, Devizions, check Six O’clock Circus live at The Three Crowns, always kicking up a stink, and the Roughcut Rebels are at The Churchill in West Lavington.

Sheer Music is at Trowbridge Town Hall with The People Versus, Pecq and Fly Yeti Fly in support, will be amazing.

Regular fav, Faze is at the Bear, Marlborough, Fire Gazer at the Barge on Honeystreet.

There’s writer Jim Read and performer Louise Jordan’s afternoon of memorable monologues exploring what it is to use paths and pavements at Salisbury Arts Centre, with Pavement Life.

Homer are at The Phoenix Bar, Wotton Basset, Shepard’s Pie play The Vic, and Barrelhouse at the Rolleston in Swindon, with Mortellica next door at Level III, while Devizes Road Oktoberfest goes off at The Tuppeny, Swindon, while the Bell in Bath also has an Oktoberfest.

Junkyard Dogs at the Bear in Bradford-on-Avon, Bully Bones at The Three Horseshoes, and CHK CHK CHK play The Cheese & Grain, Frome. The Zucchinis play Brown Street, Salisbury.

Sunday 2nd and find Melksham Climate Fest at the Assembly Hall, The Great Western Brick Show continues at Steam, Swindon, Magpie Market at The Cheese & Grain Frome, and Saba Douglas-Hamilton’s In The Footsteps of Elephants shows later there too. Funky MH at The Three Horseshoes Bradford-on-Avon, Chai For All & Radio Banska at The Queen’s Head, Box.

But it’s all down to the Southgate in Devizes, where Jon Amor holds his monthly residency, this time featuring guest Dan Moore, who’s played keys for everyone from Tom Jones to Massive Attack; ding dong!

Monday 3rd, sees the regular dream club at the Vic, Swindon, Tuesday find Improvers Art Sessions at the Cause, Chippenham and Spike at Salisbury Playhouse.

And that’s your lot for this week, enough to keep you amused for a weekend?! Keep an eye out for updates, I do do them, occasionally! And don’t forget, support Devizine with all your might! Times like this we need you sharing, caring and sending us your event details too, don’t make me come find you! Have a great week.

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Weekly Roundup of Events in Wiltshire: 8th-14th September 2022

Slight seasonal changes, wetter but still warm, slight Prime Minister changes, dryer but still a narcissistic numpty; ah well, let’s see, a day later than usual I know and apologise, what’s happening in Wiltshire over the next week……

The one link you need as usual, is our event calendar, where it’s all listed with ticket and info links, and it’s updated (fairly) regularly, so bookmark the beast and remain as you will be after reading this; in the know.  

Thursday 8th and there’s the Swindon Comedy Club at Kioki, with headliner Abi Clarke.

Friday 9th Hedda Gabler begins at the Wharf Theatre, Devizes and runs until 24th September. Hedda Gabler is recognised as one of the world’s great plays written by one of the world’s great playwrights and is generally regarded as Ibsen’s masterpiece. Hedda, on the face of it, is not your archetypal tragic heroine. Starting quietly, and quite humorously, the drama builds to its terrifying and riveting climax, involving the presentation set of pistols that Hedda inherited from her father.

One to watch, Sour Apple play the Pelican in Devizes on Friday, and look out for a new music program called Vamos, at The Old Road Tavern, Chippenham, they’ve got the wonderful Harmony Asia supporting Hoggs Bison. And find Illingworth at The Royal Oak in Marlborough, all free gigs.

“Hurrah, they are back to School” runs the tagline of the end of summer barbeque at Seend Community Centre.

Our renowned house DJ, George G Force is at Marston Park, Frome, while tribute The Smyths play The Cheese & Grain. Festival season hasn’t quite closed yet, it’s The Mucky Weekender Festival at the Winchester Bowl.

Meanwhile, In Swindon, Dangerous Kitchen play The Vic, The Salts at Swindon Arts Centre, and A Country Night in Nashville at the Wyvern Theatre.

Saturday 10th and back by popular demand, the start of the legendary Pewsey Carnival, yay! Procession is next Saturday 17th, with the Wheelbeero race on Thursday 15th, but this Saturday is Pewsey Carnival Wine Race.

Our editor’s pick of the week; Party for Life, Melksham

A world suicide prevention day fundraiser in the Sky Bar at Melksham Town FC. The Soul Strutters, Blind Lemon Experience and Roughcut Rebels play this big one, with DJs and pizza and others; sounds fantastic, we did preview it a while back, and I believe a few tickets are still up for grabs, follow their Facebook page for more details.

Staying in the Sham, The Pilot has a Family fun day with music and, fundraising for MIND, see the poster for details.

Crafts, stalls and entertainment are promised at Devizes Rotary Club’s Health & Wellbeing Showcase on the Small Green from 11am-3pm on Saturday, and for a musical evening in Devizes, rock covers band Black Nasty are at The Southgate, while People Like Us do their awesome thing at the Three Crowns.

Time also, for the Burbage Beer, Cider & Music Festival.

Another upcoming local band to watch is Salisbury indie-kids Carsick, who plan to blow the lid off of Trowbridge Town Hall.

Contrasts in Swindon as Rage Against the Regime play The Vic, while Shape Of You brings the music of Ed Sheeran to the Wyvern Theatre.

You might have caught him at Devizes Arts Festival this summer, Alfie Moore’s show Fair Cop Unleashed comes to Salisbury Arts Centre.

No prizes for guessing who Motorheadache is attributing, they’re at the Cheese & Grain, Frome, while Dana Gavanski plays their sister venue the Tree House, with Cornelia Murr in support.

And unfortunately, The International Comics Expo, ICE in Birmingham which I’ve still got listed, has been cancelled, I’m just being too lazy to delete it!   

Sunday 11th, after terrible weather last Sunday postponed Devizes Town Band’s Children’s Proms in the Park at Hillworth, it will be combined this week with the planned main Proms in the Park.  

And save a Recital Series at Swindon Arts Centre, also on Sunday, that about wraps it up for the weekend, unless you know different? Unless you dare to tell me that I missed something?! Please do, I don’t bite, at least only a nip, on the bum; it’s free to list stuff on Devizine, just message us, we’re in it for the love.

Through the week I’ve not got much, but you know updates of the event calendar occasionally happens, though I’m currently undergoing the arduous task of getting next year’s calendar up and running, so bear with, bear with.

Tuesday 13th, I’ve got Kaleidoscopic at Salisbury Arts Centre and a RSPB: A Victorian Birder’s Wiltshire at the same venue.

Next week though you can look forward to Pewsey carnival, Swindon Shuffle, and the White Horse Opera is back too, along with lots more events to get your teeth into; I’ll catch you around at one sometime, maybe? What else are you going to do, “Simpsonise” yourself with a phone app; get real?!!

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Weekend Roundup: 30th June – 3rd July 2022

Full throttle into July, then; here’s what the weekend looks like around these parts. These parts of cultural void, so it’s claimed, we say otherwise…. You want proof?

As usual no links here, the only link you need is here, our event calendar. Have a great weekend whatever you do!

Ongoing from Wednesday until Sunday the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon has got Shrek the Musical. Thursday and Friday, Devizes Musical Theatre presents their Summer Concert, Miss Fortunes at The Wharf Theatre, see the poster, always see the posters!

I’m delighted to hear Devizes LGBTQ+ group’s first big event, Drag Bingo at the Exchange has sold out on Thursday 30th; well done to them and here’s hoping for some similar events in Devizes in the future.

One of folk music’s greatest innovators, Martin Carthy is at Trowbridge Town Hall Thursday, Paul Jones Live in Concert at Christ Church, Swindon while Swindon Arts Centre has a play called Blithe Spirit, running until Sunday.

Friday is pinch punch. Chippenham Comedy Festival at The Old Road Tavern, starts, running all weekend. Limited Weekend Tickets £60, individual shows are all £7 each. Friday 1st July: 7pm Sam Michael & John Matthews: Cister Act, 8.30pm Juliette Meyers: Passport Face,10pm James Dowdeswell: Beers of a Clown. Saturday 2nd July: 5pm Jo Caulfield: Here Comes Trouble, 6.30pm Sooz Kempner: Playstation, 7.45pm Katie Mitchell: She Festers, 9pm Andrew O’Neill: We Are Not In The Least Afraid Of Ruins; We Carry A New World In Our Hearts, 10.15pm Wil Hodgson: Barbicidal Tendencies. Sunday 3rd July: 5.30pm Jessie Nixon, Dannie Johns & Millie Haswell: Dumb Belles,7pm Joe Wells: I am Autistic, 8.30pm Beth Black.

Devizes School Summer School Concert in the main hall. Minety Festival kicks off for the weekend. Melksham’s One Love reggae night has been moved from the Assembly Hall to Spencer’s Club on Beanacre Road, I just haven’t changed the poster, so forget all I said about paying attention to the posters!!

The Ukey Dukes play The New Inn, Winterbourne Monkton. Ska punkers head to The Barge at Honeystreet, for Slageri J headline there, and surfers should wipe-out at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford-on-Avon, where they’ll find the highly recommended Palooka 5. Rorke’s Drift play The Vic, Swindon, and fresh(ish) from Glasto, Jo Whiley plays 90s Anthems at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Saturday 2nd, Longleat continues showing off; those who don’t mind standing for hours, with a bottomless wallet and advance planning can see Tears for Fears, the rest of us are not left without options…. like Salisbury Pride at Queen Elizabeth Gardens.

Arts Together fundraise with a day painting at Bowood, see the poster for real this time!

Six O’clock Circus headline The Vale of the White Horse Scooter Rally at The Cooper’s Arms, Pewsey. While there’s a reggae day at The Wheatsheaf, Calne; the Bee Skas play at 3pm!

The Seven Stars in Bottlesford has a Burger BBQ for twenty quid, but you do get The Reason playing.

The amazing Jack Grace is at Southgate, and popular covers band Paradox are down the Cellar Bar in Devizes; yes, I did say The Cellar Bar, glad to see this venue back on our listings.

Band X at the Three Horseshoes Bradford-on-Avon, Siren at the 12 Bells, Trowbridge, with Hatepenny rocking the Town Hall. @Fest mini-festival at the White Hart in Attsworth. Down & Dirty at The Vic, Swindon.

Swindon’s Midlife Krisis sound system was due to setup at The Barge at HoneyStreet, however, due to issues with their secondary camping field it is unfortunately cancelled. We wish the Barge all the best with this issue, and hope it can be resolved as soon as possible.

Sunday 3rd July is DOCA’s Picnic at Hillworth Park. British Blues with Trevor Babajack Steger from 12pm, from 1pm, find some jazz-tinged klezmer and old-world Yiddish folk, from Mozzle Brocha, branch of the collective, Chai for All, who we tried to get to play a Ukraine fundraiser at St Mary’s, but it unfortunately fell through. It will be good to meet you, guys.   

Eastern European folk traditions follow that with East of Eden at 2:40, South African at 4pm with Otto & The Mutapa Calling, finishing off your Sunday entertainment. Also look out for Rose Popay, the “Art Tart,” sounds hilarious, and various carnival workshops, suitable for all ages; see the DOCA website.

Elsewhere, People Like Us headline free live music for Inspire Warminster, preview here. The Cosmic Sausages play The Bell, Bath, The Lost Hills play The Tap & Barrel, Swindon. Blues legend Andy Fairweather Low plays The Cheese & Grain, Frome, with Ruzz Guitar in support, and oh, it’s Aldbourne Doggy Day!

That’s your weekend wrapped up, unless I missed anything? Did you let us know? It’s not too late, I can edit our event calendar, if you’re nice and send cake!

Through the week you can catch a Live Art Demonstration by the wonderful Caroline le Bourgeois at Devizes Conservative Club on Monday 4th, meanwhile David Olusoga presents A House Through Time at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

Tuesday sees carparks in Devizes closed for the Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay; for a whole half-hour! Heaven help us! Keyboard warriors, I’d advise you walk or bus it into town to get your garibaldi biscuits!

The New Forest Folk Festival starts Wednesday, while there’s a bit of Shakey at Bath’s Rondo Theatre, Macbeth; all proceeds go to Marie Curie. Best of luck to the two Devizes actors appearing in this, Lucy Upward and Ian Diddams; break a leg!

Next weekend you need tickets for a fundraising concert for Devizes GAC’s chosen charity, Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, at Devizes School Hall, on Friday July 8th at 7.30pm. Special guests at the concert will be the Pewsey Belles Ladies Choir. Tickets are priced £8 and available from 01761 472468.

Both Readipop Festival and Cornbury Festival, next weekend, and of course, Devizes Carnival and Trowbridge’s ParkFest, both on the Saturday 9th. I believe I’ll be painting the whole village purple at Bishop’s Cannings mini festival at The Crown; please come and support this too. And on Sunday, give our Essex country-rocker favourites, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective a warm Devizes welcome at the Southgate.

And if you’ve read this far I salute you; people like you who pay attention really need to grab up tickets to the Full-Tone Festival August Bank Holiday, AND Devizes Scooter Rally, AND Devizes Beer Festival too!

Trending…..

Song of the Week: Sara Vian

Normally Wednesday, Song of The Week, but I was having one of those Wednesday days, you know the sort, too middley aren’t they, bit gloomy?…

Song of the Week: Deadlight Dance

It’s Wednesday night, it’s Song of the Week time…. I’m just amazed with myself that I’ve actually committed to this new regular feature for a…

Devil’s Doorbell Live EP from the Pump

It’s any wonder if this bonkers jazz skiffle duo found a double-entendre in the name of Trowbridge’s finest live music venue, The Pump, when they…

Helping Ukraine in Wiltshire

Coordinating an event in Devizes fundraising for the Ukraine has fallen wayside at the moment, I need a rethink. Meanwhile there’s lots of ways to help in Wiltshire and I thought I’d see if we can’t amalgamate them into one article….

Wiltshire Council has provided some FAQs on all aspects of fundraising, donating and housing refuges HERE, I’ve been in search for others.

Starter for ten, there’s some fundraising events coming up, starting tomorrow Tuesday 29th, at Downton Social Club, Salisbury, who have a big band concert, free with donations, just turn up after 7:30pm.

Wednesday 30th with a Community Supper at Devizes Corn Exchange, organised by Devizes Food & Drink Festival, details HERE, and Saturday sees punky rock covers bands Stone’s Throw and Izzy Barsby appear at Market Lavington Community Hall, tickets are £6, HERE.

Phoenix Brass have a concert for Ukraine at Marlborough Town Hall on Sunday 10th April, ticket info on the poster below.

If there’s one band in the UK most apt for a Ukraine fundraiser it’s the incredible lively and traditional folk-punk of The Ukrainians; I’ve seen them many years ago at the Endorset in Dorset Festival and they were unforgettable. Obviously originating from Ukraine they’re based in the north of England and have been working tirelessly raising £13,000 to-date, donating to Association of Ukrainians in GB and DEC Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal and have also committed to pay the travel expenses of two transit vans taking locally donated medical supplies to Lviv hospital. They play Salisbury Arts Centre on Saturday 23rd April with Pronghorn, Lump and Gypsy Jukebox. Tickets vary from £15 upwards, pay what you can.

Frome’s Cheese and Grain presents a Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal Event on Saturday April 30th with The Back Wood Redeemers, Mighty One, Back Of The Bus, Henry Wacey and DJ Patmandu, with all proceeds donated to the fantastic Frome Town Council’s twin town Ukrainian refugee appeal. £10 in advance HERE.

Over Easter half-term, 11th-14th April, and again from 19th-22nd, Trowbridge Town Hall has some Workshops in aid of Humanitarian Aid Centre. There are badges, flag making and sunflower sowing at £1-3, kids arts open competitions for ages 5-18yrs, and a prize raffle. There’s also an online auction of local and Ukrainian artists, with a live preview of work on 23rd April from 10am -4pm in the Old Court at the Town Hall. Details HERE.

Warminster has two Concerts for Ukraine at the Athenaeum Centre, on Fri 22nd and Sat 23rd April. All tickets are £10 HERE. Warminster Military Wives Choir, Bonner & Blake, The Echobirds, Hilary Pavey and Andrew Bazeley perform.

I’m sure there’s more yet to discover, everywhere you look there’s churches collecting donated clothes and food, there’s schools holding cake stalls, and so many other amazing efforts. If you know of some worthy to add here, please do let us know.

The response to this crisis has been overwhelming in Wiltshire. Like Wroughton businessman Cliff Barry who raised more than £20,000, bought a van and left last Thursday to deliver donations to the border. But so many others have rallied to the cause, donating or even opening their homes to refuges, it’s incredible!

WILTSHIRE for UKRAINE

Trying to find the best avenue to donate should our gig have happened, I joined a Facebook group, Wiltshire for Ukraine, assuming it was just a place to post fundraising efforts, folk looking to house refugees and visa-versa, and other general news on the theme. But I was surprised to hear Wiltshire for Ukraine is all these things and so much more. I spoke to admin Magdalena, direct from Poland, where her group are visiting charities and places dealing with help for refugees.

She was keen to point out, raising funds for smaller community groups is more effective now. They bridge the gap between big charities and its users. “Of course,” she explained, “big charities are super important and professionally help all in need. In a crisis like war help is needed immediately and funds collected by groups can immediately collect and give money to those most needed. At Wiltshire for Ukraine we collect money to help refugees who fled with nothing. We give them money directly and help them have a new start in foreign countries.”

To donate to WILTSHIRE for UKRAINE find their go-fund-me page HERE, and their Facebook group has so much more info of people going that extra mile, ideas on ways you can get involved, and information for those taking in refugees. Such as Salisbury’s Valeriy, raising £10,000 for personalised help to the children and their families inside of Ukraine who have no possibility to leave the war zone. Their GoFundMe is HERE

Another Marlborough based Facebook group called Ukrainians and their Sponsors in Marlborough and surrounding area is helping link Ukrainians needing homes with sponsors and is giving Marlborough residents a place to offer practical advice once they’re here. Find the group HERE.

There is so many amazing people locally, doing whatever they can, I am sorry if I missed you and yours, the beauty of the online blog though, this can be updated if you send me details!

Trending…..

Petrichor; New Album by The Lost Trades

If asked to summarise the themes of songs by The Lost Trades with a song, I believe I’d pick the classic Americana folk song “Keep…

Song of the Week: Atari Pilot

It’s Wednesday night, it’s Song of Week time….and here’s your host…. yeah, sorry, it’s just me, couldn’t afford Stephen Mulhern. Haven’t heard from them for…

Trouble at the Vic, Ant Trouble….

Something of a family reunion at Swindon’s Vic last night, then, if as Adam Ant chanted, we are the family, the dandy highwayman so sick…

Wiltshire Council Whack Up Parking Charges

It took only a couple of hours at a Wiltshire Council meeting yesterday, to decide punishing drivers would be the order of day; they intend to whack up parking charges an extra 10p per hour, and enforce blue-badged disabled drivers to cough up too…...

Free Sunday parking and Town Council’s free event parking will also be a thing of the past, as the conservative-led council voted in favour of the proposals.

Liberal Democrats called for the amendment to be scrapped, while Wiltshire Council leader Richard Clewer called it “economic illiteracy” and “morally bankrupt.” Apparently,it’s all part of our town centres’ “transformation.” Cllr Clewer claimed the Conservative administration “has a clear plan for the future of our towns,” continued to slag off the Lib Dems’ for their “lack a coherent strategy,” and accused them of “playing politics for short-term gains.”

So, there you go, online shoppers, let’s say a prayer for our High Streets, as we once knew them…..

Running with a Timid Deer

An absolutely spellbinding new electronica jazz-blues single out this week, of which I’d expect nothing less from what I believe to be one of Wiltshire’s most underrated bands, Salisbury’s Timid Deer, and produced by the brilliant Jason Allen.

With a grand piano opening, their evocative part-indie-part-trip hop ambience is accomplished to a new standard here, with Naomi Henstridge’s both soothing yet haunting vocals embracing howling strings and, wow, this rolling piano. It’s reflective of nineties nu-cool, the brilliance of Morcheeba or Portishead, yet without so much inspired of acid jazz or trip hop to make it cliché, rather it’s owning this refreshing edge to appeal to the more guitar-laced indie fans, too.

Run, their first single since February’s Crossed Wires, and they never cease to amaze me. This is cooler than the climate outside, just beautiful. “Here’s something we’ve been working on for what feels like an age,” Timid Deer say, finishing by saying they’re aiming for a new EP early in New Year, and for some Salisbury gigs, but I say no, please gig organisers, let’s get these guys aiming much further afield too; we need to see you in Devizes (Deborah Bufton Barnett, Ian Hopkins and Phil Moakes, I’m talking to you, make my Christmas wish come true!) Trowbridge, (Mr Moore) too!

And yes, Find Timid Deer with 45 other amazing artists on our 4 Julia’s House Compilation by clicking here!

Trending….

Song of the Week: Ajay Srivastav

New one on me, Bracknell-based Graham Steel Music Company being my gateway to this astounding London rootsy acoustic soloist, and I’m impressed. With the subtle…

Swan Dies in Road Accident at The Crammer

A swan from the Crammer hit on the road between Morrison’s roundabout and the traffic lights this morning, has died…. In territorial disputes, the wildfowl…

Song of the Week: Sienna Wileman

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On The Wayside with Viduals

Akin to Ghostbuster’s nemesis Slimer when he appears over the hotdog stand, I was squatting a spacious windowsill at Wiltshire Music Centre with an Evie’s…

Why Did the Gazette & Herald Single Out Trowbridge Takeaway with Zero Rating?

Working five years or more as a delivery driver for a local butcher, you witness some pretty awful hygiene practises while passing through numerous commercial kitchens. Yet via this experience I conclude, bad hygiene is not confined to any particular sort of eatery or of any class of establishment.

I delivered to everything from greasy spoons to London’s top hotels and restaurants, and in some standards are exceptionally high, whereas others are dreadfully dirty and pertain some terrible practises. I’ve walked through dog turd infested backyards, told to leave raw meat under the baking sun, I’ve seen a fish flipped onto the floor from a frying pan and promptly picked up and put back into the pan, and I could go on putting you off your tea, but never could I suggest such shocking things are only found in lower-priced establishments, the “posh” hotels and restaurants were equally as bad, often arguably worse.

Three days ago, freelance reporter, Beth Gavaghn broke news of four Wiltshire establishments which “have been given a zero rating by food hygiene inspectors,” published in the Gazette & Herald. Nothing wrong with this, you might suggest, it’s handy for the public to know these places rated low, and if you do suggest, I’d agree. My issue is with the structure of this, quite frankly, shoddy journalism, and if not shoddy, some bad choices made it undeniably bias.

The headline reads, “Trowbridge Chinese takeaway Happy Valley gets zero rating.” Aside grammatical errors, three of the four establishments are cherrypicked to be fleetingly noted, while Happy Valley took the brunt of the report, and was singled out in the headline. Billy Batchers Butchers in Shrewton and Sprinkles Gelato in Salisbury both scored equally low following an inspection, five months AFTER Happy Valley, but barely got a mention. The Bell at Great Cheverell also received a zero rating but mention of it was rushed through, despite being assessed at the same time as the Chinese Takeaway.

Not forgoing these inspections were made in March 2021, for The Bell and Happy Valley, and in August of the same year for Billy Batchers Butchers and Sprinkles Gelato, so for all their sakes, some update on work they’ve done to improve since would be handy to know, but I feel impelled to ponder, just why the one establishment was singled out? Did the reporter receive an adverse fortune cookie there, perhaps?!

It’s no good asking you guys, who are understandably as much in dark over this as me. I despatched a direct message to Beth via Twitter, two days ago and await a reply; just wanted to throw it out there, really, being there was plenty of time to reply, and that what I asked isn’t too OTT. That being: If other establishments also received the same low rating, why have you focussed and highlighted one in particular? That hardly seems fair. Well, are you with me? Does it sound fair to you?

Any reasoning would be speculation; I could, but I won’t go there. YetI’m not holding out much hope of a reply, unless she was to read this and shudder, oh, nasty blogger; I’d best dream up and despatch a quickfire excuse, but I had to note, further scrolling on the Gazette & Herald Facebook page revealed a sponsored advertorial for, coincidently, the Bell at Great Cheverell. “Paid partnership,” being the professional term, indicating backhanding cash to get reapproval, an avenue perhaps the Chinese Takeaway couldn’t afford to take, will get you off the hook; and you thought TripAdvisor reviews were skewered.

Conflicting, or simply the answer to our query, I’m not sure, but evidently, money talks. It should be importantly noted, a zero rating doesn’t mean an establishment must close, rather make significant improvements, and I would see no reason to be put off eating at any of them, the Bell is a rather splendid pub, and I’m certain they would have strived to improve on this rating. The others I am unaware of, but I’m sure in these uncertain times for any small business this exposure was superfluous and unwelcome; if all establishments scored equally, so should the balance of the report.

It is not your job, Newsquest, to wreck one business in favour of another. Heck, guys, I’d have given you a glowing review for a bag of prawn crackers; don’t bow to this injustice!

And readers, you’ve got your own mind, use it; accepting unedited and unsolicited submissions makes a newspaper look cheap and nasty, and I don’t believe that is what we want from local press; we’ve enough from Wiltshire Live, don’t stoop to their level, G&H.

Trending…

Old Wharf Café to Become Meeting Room

The Kennet & Avon Trust today revealed plans to convert the old café on Devizes Wharf, Couch Lane, into a meeting facility; how exciting! It…

Delicate, Like A Psychedelicat

What is a psychedelicat, a tin of magic mushroom flavoured Felix?! His picture on the tin certainly displays some suspiciously dilated pupils, but this exaggeration…

The Bradford Roots Music Festival Returns

I know, it’s hardly festival weather, but this one is all inside! Inside the glorious Wiltshire Music Centre in Bradford-on-Avon that is, on Saturday 21st…

The Devizine Online Local Yuletide Market

If you’re like me and leave shopping to the last-minute Christmas eve frenzied dash like a headless turkey, or even if you’re arranging next year’s already, here’s some local Christmas gifts and ideas, which will build up, I hope, to a virtual Christmas market, a warm winter wonderland!

Surfing through the Net, with a one-maned open search engine, over Facebook we go, laughing all the way! Hey, crafty crafters, cheeky chefs and any other local creative types, I haven’t got a naughty or nice list, so don’t make me hunt you down. I know you’re busy, but it takes a second or three, and costs nought, to message us at Devizine and get your Christmassy products and ideas listed here, on our online local Yuletide market.

So, do bookmark this page and drop back in regularly, as it will be updated.

And for those who prefer the physical, there’s a list of Christmas Craft Markets at the bottom of this list, just keep on scrollin’!

Real Christmas Trees in Devizes

Back at the Bell on the Green this year from the 26th November, as it has been for 23 years, real Christmas trees will be for sale. You can pre order your trees for click and collect or delivery at www.merryChristmastrees.co.uk

AbraKadabra

AbraKadabra make these wonderful handmade magic seed-bombs, always popular at Christmas! Contact them via Facebook or Esty, and if you are in Devizes, put the discount code DEVIZES at checkout and you’ll get free postage!

Alan Watters

Rowde artist Alan Watters has limited edition signed and mounted prints of his recent drawing of a highland cow, and gives some of the proceeds to charity. This picture is also a signed cow greetings card with each print and posting worldwide. Have a look at https://alansfineart.com if interested. Cost is just £30 with delivery included.

Arthe

From the creators of Devizes-own artistic, hectic, eclectic, chaotic, linguistic, poetic, bombastic, fantastic, and perhaps a little anarchistic, kawaii bear, Arthe, there’s some groovy greeting cards and gifts on their website, tote bags, mugs, tees, etc; check it out funk soul bears.

Andy Fawthrop

Whilst some people might have spent their Lockdown baking banana bread or stockpiling toilet rolls, our very own roving reporter, Andy was hard at it, writing short stories. These have now been published in three volumes. There’s 49 new stories in all, featuring the usual gentle topics of murder, blackmail, mistaken identity, revenge, infidelity, piracy, robbery and…oh…well, anyway, they’re jolly entertaining, and by turns spooky, bizarre or comic. You can buy them direct from Andy for a tenner each, or order them through the wonderful Jo at Devizes Books, or even buy them from Amazon (paperbacks £10, Kindle downloads £3). “They would obviously make ideal Christmas presents,” Andy says, “particularly for that special person that you don’t like very much.” I’ve read his “stuff” and beg to differ.

Beeze’s

Easy choice, you just know Beeze’s in Devizes’ Ginnel are going to have some great ideas for Christmas gifts; they’ve got a whole Christmas Collection, not to mention Little Beeze’s toys next door. Chocolate message bars? Say no more!

Website Facebook

Blossom Hill Cards

Devizes-based Blossom Hill Cards has five Christmas wonderful card designs, with all proceeds going to Alzheimer’s Society. You can buy them HERE.

Cositas Bonitas

The brilliant shareware craft shop in Sidmouth Street Devizes, Cositas Bonitas is a must stop off on your Christmas shop, you will be spoiled for choice. Check out Facebook, to see what I mean!

The Little Eco Shop, Devizes

I’m so glad to hear the Little Eco Shop is back. Go there for zero waste Christmas Eco wrapping essentials. Recycled craft wrapping paper in brown, green and red. Compostable brown paper tape. Christmas patterned brown paper tape (perfect for jazzing up the paper) Natural twine. Coloured twine made from recycled plastic. Paper bows. Craft card tags. Make your own elf Christmas crackers.

Little Eco Shop is off Couch Lane, Devizes: Website. Facebook

My Happy Place

Such a lovely name for this Devizes-based small decoupage business; so it’s mainly bottles and jars, with lights or wooden hearts hanging plaques, but owner Cassie tells me, “pretty much anything I can get my hands on that will work!” Join her Facebook group for more details.

Caroline Le Bourgeois

If you’re lucky to find this amazing wildlife artist at the Shambles, or many local fairs and markets, her cute pictures would make a perfect wall hanging gift, or greetings cards. If not, her website is here.

Dollies Dimples

Devizes-based Dollies Dimples makes these charming secret pocket tins with personalisation, visit their Etsy shop here.

The Healthy Life Company

From Green and Blacks, Montezuma, Moo Free and Clipper tea advent calendars to Vaughn’s Kitchen Christmas Cake Packs, the Healthy Life in Devizes’ Little Brittox is more than muesli. With a reduced carbon footprint focus, they have a pop-up gift shop each year, with those gifts that you won’t find elsewhere on the high street. For a healthy, planet-friendly Christmas, visit The Healthy Life, or on Facebook.

FM by Gem

Perfume, the ideal gift; Gemma is your local FM rep with everything from real discounted perfumes, to home fragrances, makeup and even cleaning products. You will need to join this Facebook group to find out more.

Shaz’s Chutneys and Pickles!

Shaz’s homemade chutneys, pickles and hampers are up for grabs from the Southgate, Devizes. With a 5 star Food Hygiene Rating, they do look tasty!

The Devizine Compilation Album, of Course!

If you’re not fussed about unwrapping gifts, I could shamelessly plug our Devizine compilation album. It can’t be on CD, because it’s far too mahoosive, it would need approximately 6 discs to cram onto, ergo you can download it, and your money goes to Julia’s House Children’s Hospices. And on it you’ll find the very best of what local music has to offer, I pinky promise you that much!

Download it HERE

White Chalk Gallery

Newly opened in Devizes, The White Chalk Gallery would be the perfect stopping place on any Christmas shop, there’s handmade jewellery and sculptured pots as well as art, and will you just look at these two needle felted cutties made from pure wool by Jo Lilley @miceandmole. Find the White Chalk Gallery in Devizes Market Place, or website here.

Simon Folkard Photography

Amazing photographer Simon Folkard has a range of Devizes themed Christmas cards, as well as his celebrated calendars. He will be at the Corn Exchange’s Christmas fayre on Saturday 15th November, look him up or contact him via Facebook.

The Gourmet Brownie Kitchen

The way to a man’s heart this festive season I can tell you, for I’m dreaming of a brownie Christmas, and no one, I repeat, no one makes a brownie as good as The Gourmet Brownie Kitchen. Currently based at Poulshot Farm Lodge, plans are afoot for a new shop, but while it looks like Devizes, it’s all top secret at the moment, so keep in the loop via Facebook, and visit their website! UPDATE: it’ll be on Maryport Street; yay!

Kit Tags

Personalise your kit bags with combat proof tags, here!

Will Do Studio

On a Bauble or hanging decoration, personalisation is trending, Westbury’s Will Do Studio have personalised Christmas ornaments. Write your wishes on the bauble and give it to the person who is important to you. Add any text and make this souvenir on the Christmas tree.

Website Facebook

The Bird, The Book & The Barrel

I could recommend a billion albums, but this debut from our brilliant The Lost Trades would be my pickermost for the yule season, it’s just sooo nice! And yes, they have this on CD, so you can gift-wrap it! Buy it here.

Hannah Cantellow Studio

From Poulshot’s to Lockeridge’s village halls, Hannah runs linocut Christmas card workshops, a great way to create multiple cards yourself. You’ll be able to make and handprint a set of 10 Christmas cards and a carved block to take away with you, which you’ll be able to print again and again. All materials, tools, design templates and refreshments are provided (however, you’re welcome to bring your own design if you prefer.) Check the website for dates and booking.

Wix n Scents

Based at Castle Combe, who wouldn’t want a pug or boxer fart scented candle, I ask you? Other scents are available! Check them out here.

Christmas Shopping in Devizes

Our friends at InDevizes has created this map of all the independent shops around Devizes, for refence when out there shopping, and the cafes too, naturally!

Interactive Maps of Devizes

Christmas Markets

Coming over all Oliva Newton John? Prefer the physical? Yeah, for shopaholics there’s nothing like trampling around a craft market this time of year, so I’ve also included a list of known Christmas craft fayres locally. If I missed yours, my gift to you is I can add it, which is not quite as good as socks or a Lynx deodorant set, but c’est la vie.

Deck The Halls @ Devizes Corn Exchange: 12th & 13th Nov.

Forest Friends Online Christmas Fayre: 15th-21st Nov.

Festive Shopping Night @ Bratton Jubilee Hall. 7-9pm. 18th Nov.

Wootton Rivers Village Hall: 20th Nov.

Westbury United FC: 20th Nov.

Shop Small Swindon Artisan Market @ The Hop Inn: 21st Nov.

Devizes Winter Festival: 26th Nov.

Christmas Market Night @ Abbey Meads School, Swindon. 5:30-8:30pm 26th Nov.

Charity Craft Fair in aid of St Joseph’s Nursey @ Devizes Conservative Club: Nov 27th, 10am-12.

Wadworth Christmas Fair: 27th Nov, 10am-4pm.

The Lamb Inn, Urchfont: 27th Nov.

Shield & Dagger Christmas Market, Swindon: 27th Nov.

Christmas Charity Fair @ The Cheese & Grain, Frome: 27th Nov.

Chippenham Festival of Christmas: 28th Nov.

Bishops Cannings School Christmas Fayre: 4th Dec.

Christmas Extravaganza @ St Johns Church, Devizes: 4th Dec.

Biddestone Christmas Fayre: 4th Dec.

Christmas Fayre at Ridgeway School, Wroughton: 4th December.

Codford Christmas Artisan Market: 4th Dec.

Mamma Events Christmas Market @ Mecca, Swindon: 11am-3pm. 5th Dec.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Devizes: 10th Dec

Christmas Fair at the Churchill Arms, West Lavington. Saturday 11th Dec.

Christmas Craft Fair @ Warminster Park Community Centre: 11am-3pm 11th Dec.

Christmas Nativity @ White Hart Attworth

Print me out and colour me in!

Oh, and send me them via our Facebook page, with your name and age, and we’ll decide winners in December. If anyone of the lovely businesses we’ve helped by plugging their wares could offer a prize, do let me know!!

Trending….

Full-Tone Festival Announce 2023 Line-up

The Full-Tone Orchestra have released details of the 2023 line-up for their annual extravaganza, The Full-Tone Festival on Devizes Green, August bank holiday. It’s all…

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Having trouble driving in Devizes? We’re not surprised, it’s got the infrastructure designed by a six-year-old given some Lego road plates. There are rules, on…

We Care Bear Selfie Sculpture

“We want to be there for every seriously ill child that needs us,” say Julia’s House, “but to care for families in your community, we need your support. As part of our Together We Care Appeal, we’re creating a giant bear sculpture and aiming to cover it with the faces of everyone who cares about seriously ill children in Wiltshire – that’s YOU!“

Join them in The Brittox, Devizes, this Friday 24th, Salisbury Market Place on Saturday 25th, or Chippenham High Street on Sunday 26th.

Have your photo taken at their selfie tent, and your photo will be added to the We Care Bear. Once created, the bear will tour different towns across the county before going on permanent display at their hospice in Devizes, so the families they look after will be reminded of your support whenever they arrive at the hospice.

Can’t make that date? Alternatively, you can submit your selfie online, just visit https://www.juliashousebear.org/upload

When can I see the finished bear? Julia’s House will announce the dates soon for when you can see your photo on the finished Julia’s House We Care Bear. Sign up for an email newsletter to get your paws on the latest bear action: https://www.juliashouse.org/enews

Don’t forget our wonderful compilation album, download it here, all proceeds go to Julia’s House
Win 2 free Tickets Here!

Trending now……

Devizine Review of 2022!

Featured Image by Simon Folkard Photography Happy New Year from Wiltshire’s wackiest what’s-on website. It’s that time again when I waffle on endlessly in hope…

Hip Hop Trio The Scribes Live at Salisbury’s Winchester Gate This Friday

Yes, we’re being drenched with live music events like a mega tsunami over a once barren desert. Yes, locally hip hop is a needle in a haystack. Something different to suit you sir? A worthy trip to Salisbury on Friday I’d highly recommend, where if you go down to the Winchester Gate on that night, you’re sure of a dope surprise, because Friday’s the CiderFest Weekend Special day Bristol’s premier hip hop trio The Scribes have their throw-down!

Yes, we love The Scribes here on Devizine, not a bad review yet, and you can see for yourself, with Pewsey’s own Latino acoustic singer-songwriter yet in a hip hop fashion, Cutsmith supporting them, equally never a bad word said about him either. So, if you fancy some raw, contemporary UK hip hop, The Winchester Gate is the destination to lock in, and it’s free; no ticket required.

Cutsmith

Listed in the current CAMRA Good Beer Guide and voted pub of the year three times, (which is, as De La Soul will remind you, the magic number) by the Salisbury & South Wilts Branch of CAMRA, The Winchester is more than Arthur Daley’s drinking hole and somewhere we’ve notched on our to-do-list.

Stonehenge Saved!

Whether, for you, it was a case of our maintaining our heritage for future generations, Pagan rights, as an economical attraction, saving the tax-payer a cool two-billion-plus, or the devastating environmental damage, no one can deny Stonehenge is our county’s world-renowned historic monument; we cherish it.

Come on, admit it, even Clark Griswold had more idea than Transport Secretary Grant Shapps! Last week I was imagining this article to be rant, major bad news, as the tunnel project risked the future of site, the surroundings and its right to be a World Heritage Site, and for what? The legacy of Boris? To shave a few minutes off commuting times?

But no, I will have to angle my antagonising elsewhere, because the High Court has today held that Transport Secretary Grant Shapps acted unlawfully when granting permission for a dual carriageway and short tunnel through the Stonehenge World Heritage Site; at long last logic presides over power!

The judge found that the Secretary of State unlawfully failed to consider less-damaging ways of relieving the existing A303. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee, and others have repeatedly called for a longer tunnel so as to protect the whole of the WHS. Just days before the judgment UNESCO’s Committee warned that if the shorter tunnel goes ahead, then Stonehenge might be placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger next year.

As part of his judgement, Mr Justice Holgate noted the Transport Secretary’s acceptance that the road scheme would have caused permanent and irreversible harm to the WHS.

The Save Stonehenge World Heritage Site is delighted, “we are enormously grateful to our legal team for their work on the case. We also acknowledge the brilliant work of the Stonehenge Alliance, and the hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide who have, over many years, passionately supported the campaign to protect our internationally famous WHS. We are especially indebted to over 3,000 individuals who have helped to fund the legal action to date.”

John Adams, OBE, SSWHS Director and Acting Chairman of the Stonehenge Alliance, said, “we could not be more pleased about the outcome of the legal challenge. The Stonehenge Alliance has campaigned from the start for a longer tunnel if a tunnel should be considered necessary. Ideally, such a tunnel would begin and end outside the WHS. But now that we are facing a climate emergency, it is all the more important that this ruling should be a wake-up call for the Government. It should look again at its roads programme and take action to reduce road traffic and eliminate any need to build new and wider roads that threaten the environment as well as our cultural heritage.”

But we’re not clear out of the water yet. SSWHS awaits the Secretary of State’s decision on whether he will appeal against the judgement. Should he do so, the legal battle will continue to save the Stonehenge landscape for future generations to marvel at and enjoy. Continue to support the campaign, more details here: https://stonehengealliance.org.uk/

Please sign the petition and share!

https://www.crowdjustice.com/case/save-stonehenge-world-heritage-site

June: State of the Thing; a Monthly Guide to Last and This Coming Month of Devizine

So, who told the April showers that the lockdown applied to it? Come on, I want names! Last month of lockdown was dry and clement, as soon as things starts opening up again, it phased between drizzle and downpour; you can’t make it up.

Yes, I wrote this too soon; bang on cue, here comes the sun for June.

If May saw a gradual return to normality, pray it continues; June should explode, either way. We started the month with concerns over Calne’s Central Youth & Community Centre, and I attended a small protest in Rowde to save Furlong Close. Not forgetting local election would inevitably send me on the usual rant, but Wiltshire lays all its eggs in the same basket. And then, wham, had to rant twice in one day when Seedy pulled out of the PCC election, you certainly couldn’t make that up!

Save Furlong Close protest in Rowde

Musically, a couple of press releases from Sheer, announcing Salem’s national tour with them hosting Swindon’s Vic gig in October, and Frank Turner at Frome’s Cheese & Grain on both Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th June. But the best Sheer post was more about Kieran’s mum, jumping out of a plane, fundraising for her grandson.

I reviewed Cornish psych-punkers The Brainiac 5’s album Another Time Another Dimension, Trowbridge’s Sitting Tenants album A Kitchen Sink Drama. Also, Sam Bishop’s great EP Lost Promises, a single from Stockwell, Storm Jae and Nory’s called Can’t Come Home, and a new track from the Longcoats, Nothing Good. We also did a great interview with Dave Lewis, one half of Blondie & Ska. Reviews in the next few days will be an EP of Celtic punk from Liddington Hill, some awesome punkish blues from Elli De Mon, and the new album from The Lost Trades, due on 2nd June.

Blondie & Ska

I started a new Sunday series, being the last one was so popular. No satire this time, just a reflection back thirty years to the era of the rave, from a personal angle; I’m having lots of fun with this, if it does make me feel old! This continues into June. So, without further to do, here’s what’s occurring in June.

Old Skool Rave

Firstly, staying at home we can entertain you too. I’m gradually working through writing promotional material and sleeve notes for our compilation album, 4 Julia’s House, which, as it sounds, all proceeds will go to Julia’s House. This has proved more work than I anticipated for me, due to the most amazing line up of talent who has kindly donated a song. The penultimate entry was an exclusive rock steady track by Blondie & Ska, and the latest entry is by none other than Richard Davis & the Dissidents. See what I mean now, don’t you? Absolutely fantastic, massively hugely massive this is going to be, over three hours of genre-crossing music; something for everyone on there. Okay, I’ll copy and paste the artists featured; hold onto your jawbone.

Richard Davis & The Dissidents

A mahoosive thanks goes to: Pete Lamb & Cliff Hall, King Dukes, Erin Bardwell, Timid Deer, Duck n Cuvver, Strange Folk, Strange Tales, Paul Lappin, Billy Green 3, Jon Veale, Wilding, Richard Davis & The Dissidents, Barrelhouse, Tom Harris, Will Lawton & the Alchemists, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective, Kirsty Clinch, Richard Wileman, Nigel G. Lowndes, Kier Cronin, Sam Bishop, Mr Love & Justice, Barmy Park, The Truzzy Boys, Daydream Runaways, Talk in Code, Longcoats, Atari Pilot, Andy J Williams, The Dirty Smooth, SexJazz, Ruzz Guitar Blues Revue, The Boot Hill All Stars, Mr Tea & The Minions, Cosmic Shuffling, Blondie & Ska, The Birth of Bonoyster, The Oyster, The Two Man Travelling Medicine Show, Julie Meikle and Mel Reeves, Meru Michae, Cutsmith, The Tremor Tones, Big Ship Alliance, First Born Losers, Dutch Money(s), and last but by no means least, Neonian, who is working on a track as we speak.

Phew, so, yes, who is as out-out as Mickey Flanagan in June? I know right, how surreal. I went to a pub, an actual pub, and heard live music last Saturday; down the trusty gate for those Daybreakers. Bloody fantastic it was too. Here’s some things to be looking forward to over this month. Note, this is in no way exhaustive, (which is what I’m going to be trying to keep up to date with it all!) You must continue to check our event guide, for details of all events listed here, updates of events, and even live streamed.

Half term sees us into June, ongoing from Tuesday 1st there’s holiday activities at Wiltshire Museum, which we welcome their reopening, and program of forthcoming events.

Also, back in business is the Nether-Street’s Farm Cookery School, who has a parent and child class called Cake Lady on Thursday 3rd.

The weekend sees The Devizes Lions Sports Coaching Weekend at Devizes Leisure Centre, IndieDay happening across Devizes town centre, meanwhile Devizes Southgate welcomes Texas Tick Fever.

There’s a Court Room Cabaret at Trowbridge Town Hall, Talk In Code play Swindon’s Level 3, with Atari Pilot, and Rude Mood are at The Vic.

Eddie Martin is live at The Bell in Bath, and we wish the Bath Reggae Festival a successful first event, let’s hope it’ll become an annual thing.

While we’re on about festivals, the following weekend, from Friday 11th is Kite Festival at Kirtlington Park, Oxfordshire. Closer to home, Trevor Babajack Steger is at The Southgate, Devizes on Saturday, and don’t forget Lions on the Green in Devizes, Sunday 13th; let’s support their brand-new fund-raising event. Joh Griven also has a guided tour of the Heritage Walk of Devizes.

This sounds fun too, Mustard Brass Band live at The Bell in Walcott Street, Bath

Monday 14th there’s an important meeting online, a progress report on Wiltshire Museum’s hopeful move to the Assize Court.

Summer Solstice weekend, (solstice being 4:30 on Monday 21st) kicks off the Bigfoot Festival at Ragely Hall, Warwickshire. Closer to home, as it goes to press, the Kington Langley Scarecrow Festival is still happening. The HoneyStreet Barge presents Troyka, on Saturday 19th, Jon Amor’s King Street Turnaround at The Southgate, Devizes and Ruzz Guitar’s Blues Revue with the Pete Gage Band at The Cheese & Grain, Frome.

There are also two great charity fundraising events, Caroline Lowe as Amy Winehouse at Swindon’s Swiss Chalet, in aid of The Specialized Project, which acts as a fundraising portal for many charitable causes and projects. And at The Rose & Crown in Worton, Chloe Jordan, Mistral and the Celtic Roots Collective have a fundraiser for MacMillan Cancer Support.

To the last weekend of what will, finger’s crossed, be an amazing return to normality, on Saturday 26th, The Southgate, Devizes welcomes Blind Justice, and the brilliant Blondie & Ska play The Greyhound, Trowbridge. But I’m hopefully saddling up and heading east, for geetars and corset swinging fun at the Barge on HoneyStreet, where those Boot Hill All Stars plan to moor up, with Dry White Bones; that one will go off!

 As far as I know, the legendary Black Uhuru at Frome’s Cheese & Grain, and Sunday 27th Blondie & Ska will be at the Royal Oak, Corsham. But as I say, loads more will be listed by the time we know what’s what, and hopefully a summer to remember is on the cards; just have to take responsibility for adhering to regulations and observing social distancing. Have a great June.

Trending….

Swan Dies on the Crammer, Devizes

Saddened to hear of the death of a swan on the Crammer today, via Devizes Police who were called to its attention last night…. The…

Devizine Christmas Podcast!

I’ve only gone and done another podcast, and I apologise. But it is in keeping with the season….. Please note: this podcast contains adult themes…

Carmela To Help in Local Care Home

Over three years since my most memorable “Spider-Milk-Man” run in aid of Carmela’s Stand Up to Muscular Dystrophy, it’s always nice to catch up with…

Sustainable Devizes Christmas Toy & Book Swap

Grab some free Christmas gifts, clear some space at home, and reduce waste… “try swapping not shopping this Christmas,” says Sustainable Devizes, as they host…

Alex Roberts at The Barge, Honeystreet 

by Ben Romain and Victoria Stanley We ventured out to the Barge to catch Alex Roberts after first seeing him at The Southgate, Devizes on…

Summer Solstice Celebrations Looking Likely at Stonehenge

With the green light given for the A303 tunnel at Stonehenge, the lockdown restrictions at winter solstice and EH’s solstice parking fee demands, it’s understandable we haven’t seen a positive message from the pagan high priest, Uther Pendragon for a while. But this week proved different. If Uther used emojis on his social media posts it would be near all smiley faces, but he’s not the type to, so there wasn’t!

Nevertheless, the leader of the warrior and political arm of the modern druid movement, The Loyal Arthurian Warband, reported back from a virtual RT meeting with English Heritage, Police and other interested parties, save Wiltshire Council who Uther noted, “steadfastly refused to attend.”

Assurances about this year’s summer solstice celebrations at Stonehenge appear positive. Urther called for “assurances from EH and their partnering ‘authorities’ that there are no plans to restrict access by ticket and/or advance booking, or to take part in any Goverment pilot or other such ‘trial’ that restricts access to ‘all-comers’ due to perceived health issues or certification. And that no pilgrims will be denied entrance, save for those who’s anti social behavior dictates such.”

“EH are continuing to make plans and arrangments,” Urther reported, “for the managed open access to go ahead as scheduled for the night of 20th/dawn of the 21st June, subject to the lifting of Government restrictions, due to end by this point.”

On the eve of lockdown last year, English Heritage said, “we know how appealing it is to come to Stonehenge for Winter Solstice, but we are asking everyone to stay safe and to watch the sunset and sunrise online instead. We look forward to welcoming people back for solstice next year.” And with that, and this positive development, we hope things will run smoothly for 2021.

Crossed Wires with a Timid Deer

OMG, and coming from someone who refuses to use OMG on principle, rather than its blasphemous connotations, that old dogs, new tricks, I don’t usually conform to trending words or abbreviations. I just don’t get the irony. I mean, kids use the word sick to mean something that’s good. Why can’t they just use wicked like we used to do?

Anyway, it’s my third music review of the day, and while I may be knocking them out, tangents tend to creep in without apologies. But here’s my new favourite discovery while washing the dishes, Salisbury’s Timid Deer, a band I’ve seen listed here and there, supporting our Lost Trades, a track I loved on Screamlite’s New Hero Sounds NHS fundraising compilation, et all, but had yet to delve fully into. And the result is the reason I used OMG despite all I said about it.

Ah yeah, at the Lost Trades launch at the Pump!

All I will say is, if our mission is to seek out new local music, new bands and boldly go where no blog has blogged before, Captain Kirk needs a crew therefore so do I. Mind you, my own daughter suggests I look more like Suru on Discovery, which I beg to differ; the guy walks like the back end of a donkey while I’ve got the more Charlie Chaplin swagger, and I excuse another tangent. Why didn’t someone least hint, oi, Worrow, I reckon you’d like Timid Deer, reckon its right up your street?

Before I’d even put the fairy liquid in the sink, I’m warmed to these mellow electronic and soulful vibes. Akin to Portishead and Morcheeba, without the need to be locked in the nineties trip hop era, Timid Deer is a blessing in the indie-fuse of euphoric keys by Tim, with Tom on double bass, guitarist Matt, drummer Chris, and the mind-blowingly gifted vocals of Naomi, who has the vocal strength of Mayyadda, but with the childlike uniqueness of Bjork.

The name-your-price single Crossed Wires came out end of last month, unbeknown to me. An uplifting piano three-minute masterwork, engulfing your soul and building layers with smooth electronic beats. Evocative as Enya without the orchestrated strings, as expressive as Clannad without the folk roots, and closer to Yazoo via electronica, rather than the aforementioned influences of Portishead and Morcheeba. Ticks all my boxes.

There are two gorgeous previous albums, Mountains stretches back as far as 2012 and Melodies for Nocturnal from 2019, and there you go, see, I’m nocturnal, why didn’t someone nudge me further towards this great band? I dunno, if a jobs worth doing…..

Trending….

Illingworth Celebrate Their 100th Gig!

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Dr John Otway Rocks Trowbridge’s Pump

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DOCA Step into Christmas!

As sparkly as Elton John at his most sparkliest, Devizes Outdoor Celebratory Arts pulled the tinsel out of bag for the annual Winter Festival yesterday…

Stonehenge or Bust; Duck n Cuvver Scale the Fence!

The last thing Robert Hardie wants is to be portrayed as villainous, or condoning mass trespass, though he accepts some might interpret breaking over the fence at Stonehenge as such. Chatting to this veteran on the phone this morning, he described the exhilaration and sensation of wellbeing, wandering between Wiltshire’s legendary stone pillars, but expressed he doesn’t wish to encourage others to follow his example, only to raise awareness of his crusade.

Frustration with English Heritage was the prime motive for taking the leap, displayed in his video doing the rounds on social media. But one half of Salisbury folk-rock indie duo, Duck n Cuvver has been fundraising for over three years to be able to shoot the final part of a music video inside the stone circle. “Initially,” he said, “English Heritage said it would cost £750, then they suddenly upped it to £4,500.” I asked Rob if they gave an explanation, a breakdown of what the costs involved to them would be. He replied they hadn’t.

My musing wandered over the occasion two years ago when local reggae band, Brother from Another pulled a publicity stunt recording themselves atop Silbury Hill, to wide criticism, but how The Lost Trades recently played around Avebury stone circle without trouble. Rob and Ian cannot call a compromise though, being the subject of the song, Henge of Stone, is as it says on the tin. As he explained to the Salisbury Journal back in 2019, “This video will make history – singing about Stonehenge in Stonehenge.”

Clearly enthusiastic about covering our ancient local landmarks as song themes, Rob told me he’d written about Avebury too, and how he played them to the solstice crowd there. This part of our conversation ended with him reciting a few verses in song, and expressing the feeling of joy as the crowds sang them back to him.

While he didn’t rule out this was a publicity stunt too, we discussed the necessities of the project. Rather than being a colossal movie production, with the atypical entourage, trailers and crew, all that’s needed is his partner in crime, Ian Lawes, and possibly the accompanying musicians, Chris Lawes, Jamez Williams, Louis Sellers and Paul Loveridge, a cameraman and a few instruments. The mechanics of shooting the footage would be simple, it’s unplugged, being there’s no electricity on site, and Rob explained how mats would be provided to protect the grass. Besides, if EH’s concerns were for the welfare of the site they’d simply say no, surely, not put a price on it.

There’s therefore no justice, in my mind, really, on the exceptionally high price tag. Only to assume English Heritage is out to profit. Contemplating on recent outcries concerning activities around Stonehenge; the solstice parking debacle, closing for winter solstice and of course the tunnel, which we mutually dismissed as ludicrous on the grounds excavating there would obviously turn up some ancient findings and archaeological digs, and protection rights would whack the project way over budget, it feels the quango run agency is not the best method to protect our heritage sites, if the conservative ethos is revenue driven rather than insuring it’s splendour is for all to enjoy and savour. As Rob points out in the film, “Stonehenge belongs to fucking us!”

Ah, story checks out; even English Heritage states similar on their website, if not quite so sweary! “The monument remained in private ownership until 1918 when Cecil Chubb, a local man who had purchased Stonehenge from the Atrobus family at an auction three years previously, gave it to the nation. Thereafter, the duty to conserve the monument fell to the state, today a role performed on its behalf by English Heritage.” It’s basically one extortionate babysitter, calling the shots.

I enjoyed chatting with Rob, even if my plan to record the dialogue backfired due to my poor tech skills! I apologise to him for this improv article.

I’m surprised to not have previously heard of Duck n Cuvver, we tend to get vague coverage of the Salisbury area; something I need to work on. We did rap about our mutual friend, the pianist prodigy, young Will Foulstone, among other things.

The duo are sound as a pound, though, real quality folk rock come indie sound, the song is cracking, proper job. Which is why they’ve supported the likes of the Kaiser Chiefs and The Feeling, and recently performed at the National Armed Forces Day. Ardent about his music, this veteran explained his service inspired the band name, and continued to express his passion for this particular song, something which has been evolving over five years, and it shows. He described it as a “celebration of life,” dedicated to a friend who passed away, from cancer.

Both members of the duo are good, charitable folk, and if Rob did climb the fence at Stonehenge recently, note he lives within the restricted range of it to constitute it being his daily exercise. From our phone call alone, I could tell they’re not the sort to abuse the trust, if it was given to them, to perform at Stonehenge, that’d be a magical moment, and, well, we could do with a magical moment right now. So, if you can help fund their campaign, you’ll find a link to do so here.

I’ll pop the song which is kicking up all the fuss below, and leave with a thanks for the natter, Rob, and I wish you all the best with the crusade; Stonehenge or bust!

    

Tunnel Rat Refurb their Studio for Social Distancing Recordings

Unaware of their sound until now, but I’ve heard only good things about South Wiltshire duo Illingworth. Via this video you can hear their worth, a wonderfully executed rock power ballad, “Sing it.” High time to review their September debut album New Normal based on this, me thinks, but for now we’re here to mention the recording studio, as that’s what the video is promoting.

In a friendly, rural setting Tunnel Rat Studios is based in Haxton, near Salisbury, and only opened last year, but since had clients such as professional opera singer, Deborah Mansi, singer-songwriters Paige Dobson and Emma Burton, as well as aforementioned Illingworth. The news is though, they have just had a major refurb. “Is this to enable better social distancing measures?” I asked engineer and producer Eddie Prestige, one half of studio’s pair, with Jolyon Dixon, each of whom have over thirty years proven experience in the industry.

“Yes,” he replied, “it was mainly for social distancing measures. However, we have upgraded our equipment too.”

Tunnel Rat Studios can now offer fantastic quality recording in a larger, covid19 secure environment, with experienced professional engineers and session musicians available in house to help. There are separate performance and engineering rooms, with full line of sight between the two.

Their comfortable live room is plenty big enough for up to four people to play together. The control room, which can record up to sixteen channels of audio simultaneously, and have high-end outboard equipment, like the Manley Voxbox channel strip, and it’s accessed by a separate door. Containing a 2020 iMac, running Logic pro X with many of the latest software instruments and first-rate plug-ins, including Waves bundles and Celemony Melodyne studio 5, a Black Lion audio analogue to digital converters, mind-print DTC channel, and Kemper profiling amplifier, and Peluso 2247le (Tube U47 clone) Lauten audio Clarion (FET Condenser) microphones. There are a matched pair of Miktek C5 (small diaphragm condensers) and 2 MXL Lundahl edition R77 ribbon mics. They also have all the usual dynamic mics like shure SM57 (x2) shure SM91 (x2), and for monitoring they use genelec 8020 speakers and Event Opals.

Now, you see, that technical jargon is all double-Dutch to me, sounds good though and I’m certain if you’re a musician into getting sound production perfection, considering Tunnel Rat might be an option, they promise it’ll be an affordable one. They’ve even a unique Christmas gift package, a voucher for the aspiring singer or musician, offering studio time vouchers from as little as £125, valid for a whole year from purchase. Each voucher entitles the recipient to studio time at Tunnel Rat, and they encourage you to get in touch for more details or to discuss any special requirements you may have.

Here is their website.

Bristol Hip Hop Group, The Scribes Coming to Salisbury

Described by The Evening Herald as, “raw and exciting, honest and sensitive, a soulful brand of rap,” Bristol’s trailblazing hip hop outfit, The Scribes play Salisbury’s The Winchester Gate, on Saturday September the 12th.

The Winchester Gate is a community pub just on the out skirts of Salisbury city centre which heralds live music, particularly supporting reggae and hip-hop culture. The event is free, The Scribe planning to begin at 7pm.

The Scribes are a multi-award-winning hip hop trio, whose unique blend of beatboxing, off-the-cuff freestyling and genre-spanning music has created a critically acclaimed live show quite unlike any other on the scene today, with appeal ranging far beyond traditional hip hop fare.

The Scribes at BeCider Festival

They have consistently proven to be an impressive and engaging live act with 2019 festival appearances at Glastonbury, Wilderness Festival, Shambala, Boomtown Fair, Bearded Theory, to name but a few, and have toured extensively across the UK and onto Europe.

The Scribes are also proud winners of both the Exposure Music Award’s “Best UK Urban Act” and the EatMusic Radio Award’s “Best Live Act”, and have provided original music for BBC and Channel 4 television, as well as being featured regularly on both national and local radio and media including BBC 1Xtra and BBC Radio 1 Introducing.

Hotly tipped as one to watch, The Scribes have shared stages with the likes of Macklemore, Wu Tang Clan, Dizzee Rascal, Kelis, Rag N Bone Man, Example, Lethal Bizzle, The Wailers, Jurassic 5, Sugarhill Gang, KRS One, De La Soul, MF Doom, and Souls Of Mischief, and are steadily establishing a growing following across the continent to add to their already significant fan base at home.

Check out their new EP, The Totem Trilogy Part 1 here.

March On: Things to Do. Part 2

Everyone having a nice March so far, been alright, innit? I promised, when I featured the first fortnight of events, here, that I would return to complete the last two weeks. I’ve promised this before and totally spaced on it, for which I apologise; not enough hours in the day. Nothing to do with my goldfish memory. Here though, this month, I’ve actually only gone and done it, before the 31st March too! See below if you don’t believe it’s true, the last fortnight in March, stuff to do while waiting for the supermarkets to restock on bog roll, and all that. I know, it scares me sometimes too.

madmarch
Click on the hare here to see the first fortnight of March

Bear in mind, mind, our calendar is constantly updating, so do check in as more events and gigs are bound to magically appear like the shopkeeper in Mr Ben.

Week 3

Sunday 15th is where we were up to, and I got two fantablous gigs, Burbank are the White Bear in Devizes, while Jon Amor is at the Three Horseshoes in Bradford on Avon; nice.

Monday, I never know if the Devizes Folk Club is on down the Lamb or not, to be frank, but it’s a place for a beer if I’m wrong and it’s not!!

Tuesday 17th The Stonehenge lecture at the Wiltshire Museum is now sold out. Celebrated cartoonist and artist, Norman Thelwell is at The Merchant’s House in Marlborough, for a fascinating hour illustrated talk, tracing his life, passions and artistic development. Thelwell produced 1,500 cartoons and 60 front covers for the famed Punch magazine alone and some 32 books translated into a dozen different languages. His works were full of beautifully observed detail and mainly of rural subjects, including country and leisure pursuits, sport, house sales and renovation, stately homes, gardening and sailing. Failing that, Cracknakeel provides live music at The Sun in Frome for their St Patrick’s Day celebration.

Wednesday 18th is jam-packed, for a Wednesday! Acoustic jam down the Southgate, Devizes. Bromham’s Farm Cookery School has a Taste of Morocco class, where you could be learning how to make a Briouat which is like a Moroccan Samosa, make your own Khobz and Kefta Mkaouara. £40.00 per person. Over in Marlborough David Evans gives the second of three lectures in The Merchant’s House Study Series, focussing on Reformation in England and the Arts. The Roots Sessions continues at Frome’s Cheese & Grain with the fantastic Ruzz Guitar’s Blues Revue.

ruzz1

Thursday 19th and you could be back down The Farm Cookery School in Bromham for a Mozzarella & Halloumi Masterclass with Josie. She will teach how to make both cheese which is technical but fun! £35.00 per person. The fantastic Ed Byrne is at the Bath Forum and Moles has a punky/metal night with the Anarchist’s Bookfair, Butter The Pavement and Out Of Reach.

JCS_2020

If it’s a slow start to the week, Friday 20th March makes up for it. If, like me, all you know about Jesus Christ Superstar is that he came down from heaven on a Yamaha, and you have doubts with your conviction of that, it’s the opening night for this amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd at Devizes’ Wharf Theatre. Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic musical portrayal of the last seven days of the life of Christ as seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot runs until Sat 28th March and while tickets are still available as I write this, do be as quick, as if you were on a Yamaha yourself; take care not to skid though!

operaspring

Meanwhile Devizes Town Hall is the place to head for opera fans, as The White Horse Opera presents their Spring Concert. Including Donizetti’s L’Elisir d’amore, Ruddigore by Gilbert and Sullivan and Hadyn’s Creation, this would be the perfect introduction to opera for those, like me, who thought Donizetti was a type of pasta sauce!

melkfos

If you fancy music more pop, the local supergroup I’m always raving about, the Female Of The Species play Melksham’s Assembly Hall. Fusing all their respective band’s influences, expect the best of rock, soul and ska as the girl’s combine forces for a fun-filled gig; I’ve been to see one of these shows and I’m not hyping it up because they’re all awesome chicks, I highly recommend it!

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Day one of two, at the inspiring Shoebox Theatre in Swindon of their FUSE Festival where six emerging artists test a new performance idea over three days. Fuse is about supporting the beginnings of new work before it’s fully developed. Watch, discuss, and be part of the creation of something brilliant. Two performances Kat Lyons’ Dry Season, interweaving music and movement with original spoken word poetry and extracts from medical literature. And the debut one-woman-show from Mighty Mammal Theatre, Swine of the Times, where you can meet the piggies at the troff; they sing songs, say prayers and even mime. Alice Wolff-Whitehouse employs her skills in physical comedy, dance and song to bring to life a series of flawed and quintessentially British characters, looking at the grotesque nature of privilege in the UK through a warped and colourful lens.

Staying in Swindon, Baila Coffee & Vinyl have some Disco Voodoo with DJ Amir, or try indie rock covers with Joli & the Souls at the Vic. Elsewhere, the Leathers play The Three Horseshoes in Bradford on Avon, Clannad are at Bath Forum, and Jack Dee’s Off The Telly tour is at Salisbury City Hall.

Saturday 21st then. After the hugely successful free concert in the Market Place last summer, The Full Tone Orchestra have taken their show to Marlborough, and return to town to rave the night away at the Corn Exchange. Taking the most popular section of their show, the club anthems, expect this to be something innovative and all glowsticks, as conductor Anthony Brown’s beloved orchestra reproduce the club classics which defined an era.

The Cavalier go country with the Stone Mountain Sinners, caught these guys before, they’ve a refreshing approach to country-rock which is a cut above the rest. And breezy, original songwriter Ed Witcomb makes a welcome return to The Southgate. For surf beats, odd time signatures, eccentric tunes and irony-fuelled free jazz, try The Barge at Honeystreet, where bonkers surf surrealists Mustard Allegro do their stuff.

Super Trooper Abba tribute, Sensations grace the Seend Community Centre, while Swindon’s Meca has a Whitney Houston tribute. Don’t forget though, it’s day two of the Shoebox’s Fuse Festival too.

Mercy Lounge at The Three Horseshoes, Bradford on Avon. Recommended ska night at Warminster’s Prestbury Sports Bar with the Train To Skaville, and Paul Carrick is at Bath Forum.

Train to Skaville

Week 4

Head to the Southgate for an afternoon pint or three, on Sunday 22nd, and our fantastic singer-songwriter Vince Bell will entertain you. Meanwhile, Groovelator play The Three Horseshoes in Bradford.

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Vince

Tuesday, Devizes Film Club at the Town Hall have the latest Ken Loach film, Sorry We Missed You, which you will be if you miss this one film fans. Full of drama, tension and heartbreak. Ricky and Debbie are the parents of teenage children. Ricky joins the ‘gig’ economy with a franchise for a parcel delivery firm. The job is sold to him as one where he will become master of his own destiny. Providing, that is, he complies with the labyrinth of deadlines, rules and conditions imposed by the company, a near impossible task. Debbie is a care worker who wants to care for the old people as though they are her Mam. But her working conditions thwart her in doing the job as she thinks fit. This modern Dickensian story dramatises the conflict between work and family life in contemporary Britain.

Don’t forget Wednesday’s acoustic Jam down the Southgate, and blues-folk singer Elles Bailey is with Phil King at the Chapel Arts, Bath. Thursday you can witness epic human-powered feats, life-affirming challenges and mind-blowing cinematography on the big screen at The Banff Mountain Film Festival world tour, coming to the Salisbury City Hall. Staying in Devizes on the last Thursday of every month though is no bore, as the regular and celebrated open mic night at the Cellar Bar is something to behold.

Seventies punk bands never had such a great name as Brighton’s Peter & The Test Tube Babies. Still going strong forty years on, they play the Vic in Swindon on Friday 27th. Tenner on the door. Swindon also has an Improv Jam at The Shoebox, and homemade function band Locomotion at the Swiss Chalet.

Locomotion

While it’ll sadly never be possible for the boys to be back in town, Preston’s tribute Twin Lizzy will. They make a welcomed return to the Cavalier, Devizes on Friday. Meanwhile, the Devizes & District Twinning Association take over the town hall to bring us some French Café Music with Jac & Co, tickets are also a tenner for both these diverse evenings.

How much more diverse do you want? A dedicated club night for adults with Learning Disabilities? This Is Me at the wonderful charity youth centre, Young Melksham is precisely that, a night of great music and friendship. There’s a series of these events, first one is Friday.

Another welcomed return to Marlborough Folk-Roots at the Town Hall on Friday, when Steve Knightley explores the themes and stories that inspire him and shows how music and words can become lyrics and chords and notes can meld to create songs that acquire a life of their own.

For want of an authentic tribute band, From The Jam play The Cheese & Grain in Frome, and I’ve heard all good stories about them. If originals are what you want though, The Queen’s Head in Box has a double-booking Friday. Katy Hurt stretches the country music genre in exciting new directions; haunting blues vocals, towering country rock guitars, even a reggae vibe, and she is followed by psychedelic alternative rock band, The Bohemian Embassy.

Saturday night of the 28th March is alright, but no fighting, please. Time for the Devizes Lions’ Spring Concert at St Andrew’s Church, where Ian Diddams comperes Bath Coleman, Bangers & Nash, and the Trowbridge & District Youth Band. Tickets are £10, proceeds to Wiltshire Young Carers.

The Corn Exchange has a Gin Festival. Tribute act, Motley Crude are The Cavalier and local heroes Rockhoppaz play The Black Swan. For high octane original and classic rock mixed with some tasteful Bluesy tracks, check the Mark Smallman Band at the Southgate.

Devizine is the unofficial Tamsin Quin fan club, if you wanna hear why, head to Bromham’s Owl on Saturday. Another Abba Tribute, Swede Dreams play Market Lavington Community Hall.

Tamsin Quin

Highly recommended for the mods, The Roughcut Rebels are at The Pheasant in Chippenham. Also, Blondie & Ska are great fun, they’re at the Wiltshire Yeoman in Trowbridge, checking ahead, they play in Devizes, at the Pelican in May. The Blue Rose Band at The Westbury Conservative Club and an Amy Winehouse tribute at Bath’s Odd Down AFC & Social Club. Level III have a “One Step Beyond-ska and punk club-night.

Elsewhere in Swindon, homemade Damm at Coleview Community Centre and P!nk tribute, Beautiful Trauma play Brookhouse Farm, and a Pearl Jam tribute, Earl Jam at the Vic.

Sophie Matthews explores the links between the visual and the aural in a one-hour presentation at the Merchant’s House, Marlborough. Drawing on the works of great painters including Brueghel, Hogarth and Rigaud, Sophie presents a feast of images featuring historical woodwind instruments in their original social context interspersed with live performances of historical music using authentic instruments.

Sunday 29th – Nearly there, and breath…. Yin Yoga & Gong Bath at Devizes Corn Exchange, The Sunday Sessions continue at The White Bear with Matt Cook and Gary Hall at The Southgate. There’s a Comic-Con at Bath Pavilion, to be frank, it’s a commercial affair rather than a genuine “comic” con, with cosplay, gaming and meeting vague TV actors and ex-Gladiators, but might be fun for the kids.

That’s it, folks, March done, save Bradford on Avon Folk Club have Geoff Lakeman on Tuesday 31st. Let’s regroup in April, but feedback on these articles are needed. Do they work for you? Long-winded I know, but in order to fit it in. Devizine is a work in progress, I enjoy and need to know what’s working and what’s not. So, if you’ve read this far, I salute you! Tell me about it!

© 2017-2020 Devizine (Darren Worrow)
Please seek permission from the Devizine site and any individual author, artist or photographer before using any content on this website. Unauthorised usage of any images or text is forbidden

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Mad March: Things to Do. Part 1…

Huzzah, hurrah, hurray, whoop, bravo, hoot, shout, shriek, hosanna, alleluia and other synonyms for expressions of delight which I’ve shamelessly purloined from Word’s dictionary. Do I care? It’s March, time of the Mad March Hare, spring springing, birds a-singing in the blossoming treetops; after such a damp winter it’s refreshing to look forward to the April showers season!

Why do we even call them April showers when they tend to carry through from March to June?! Nevertheless, it’s warmer rain, with momentary lapses of sunshine, those little teasers of spring; don’t blink you might miss them. Still, just like a bear, I’m awakening from my hibernation, and heading downstream for a salmon supper!

In celebration of the feast, here’s some choosiest stuff to do over the coming month, as fished from our event calendar. The list is by no means comprehensive, you know the score by now, it’s updated (nearly) every day, so do try to keep up. Facebook is a good idea, if you do that, our page pumps posts out like Dwayne Johnson on a promise. Also, consider signing up for a weekly email, I don’t spam you, just once a week bulletin of what we’ve done and what’s to come.

First fortnight in March then, here it comes; the second half will follow…… I say that, then like a goldfish it’s a notion that’s gone in three seconds! Also, I can’t provide the links, but it’s all listed on our home page with links; it’ll take till April to do that, computer running at the speed of snail and all!

Devizes: First of the month is Sunday, nice way to ease into it. Georgina, Landlady of the White Bear, is running the London Marathon for Dorothy House, so there’s a pub quiz at 6:30pm to fundraise; £2.50 per person, max. 6 people on a team. Great Scott! St James Church hosts the monthly Devizes Silver Screen Film Club; Back to the Future showing this month. A great social meeting for our elders, and Driving Miss Daisy can provide transport.

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If you’re looking for something wilder, The Three Horseshoes in Bradford on Avon is the place to head, where those Back-Wood Redeemers will be twisting those dark country and blues riffs into their splendid frenzy. Highly recommended from Devizine, tell them we sent you!

PSG has their regular Monday “Devizes session of Pop Soul & Gospel Choir,” at the Parish Rooms on Long Street, from 8pm until 9:30pm. Incredibly welcoming, PSG currently expect between 25 and 30 members on a Monday, and inform us “it’s a fantastic sound!” Join them for a fantastic start to your week!

Tuesday 3rd then, and it’s Devizes Film Club at the Town Hall. The Farewell (PG) from China, 2019. Director: Lulu Wang. To western eyes, this film has a curious plot but it becomes understandable in the telling. Billi has left China aged six, to be brought up in New York. Twenty-four years later, she is called back to attend a wedding that has been arranged purely to conceal from her grandmother that she is dying of lung cancer. Such kindly subterfuge is apparently common practice but Billi finds it hard to accept. She sees again many family members and it is her gradual reacquaintance with her Chinese heritage that provides this compelling, spiky exploration of family duty. A heartfelt, funny, emotional and rewarding film. The screenplay and production are wonderful, prompting The Irish Critic to call it the Best Film of the Year.

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Edgelarks

Wednesday is the regular acoustic jam at the Southgate. Marlborough’s folk-roots club has Edgelarks at the Town Hall; duo Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin combine exquisite folk with influences as diverse as the blues and Indian classical slide guitar, to create a sound that is “subtle, atmospheric and bravely original” (The Guardian.) Alternatively, one of the most romantic operas ever written, La Bohème is showing at Bath Forum.

Even if not for the weather, Thursday 5th should get heated. Extinction Rebellion Devizes and Marlborough debate with MP Danny Kruger at St Mary’s Devizes.

Friday night in Devizes looks loud; hard-edged vintage blues with Barrelhouse at the Southgate will yowl like the Howlin’ Wolf. To contend, AC/DC tribute, Hell’s Bells play the Exchange, but want for a local, loud, classic rock cover-band, the awesome Homer play The Crown at Bishop’s Canning’s, and you’ll probably hear them from the Market Place!

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Buddy Holly and The Cricketers

Lighter rock n roll tributes come from Melksham’s Assembly Hall, where you’ll find Buddy Holly and The Cricketers. Or Bath Forum has Elvis show, The King is Back, and Johnny Walker presents Sounds Of The 70s at Swindon’s Wyvern Theatre.

The 7th, first Saturday of the month then, here it is: A songwriter genuinely literate, sometimes almost literary, Ian Parker is an original craftsman. Expressed through a distinctive bitter-sweet vocal delivery, Ian’s songs hold nothing back. His ability and willingness to share with his audience, naked honesty and genuine emotion, is what sets him apart, and The Long Street Blues Club welcomes him and his band back. Meanwhile, a little more light-hearted, Teachers Pet Rock Show comes to The Cavalier Community Hall. If you’ve seen School of Rock, expect an East/West Midlands styled tribute, promising to be a “gut busting, face melting glorious rock show that’s suitable for all ages!”

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There’s acoustic fingerpicking, electric guitar thumping rhythms, harmonica and a loop pedal at the Southgate with Jon Pollard, while Marlborough’s Lamb has the high-energy classic rock covers band, The Electric Troubadours. Down t’other end of that enlarged High Street, The Wellington has its Welly-Fest; check their Facebook page as there’s stuff going on the whole month long. Comes to ahead for reggae fans though, on Saturday  when our friends Razah and Knati P bring their sound system; oh yes.

Tributes in Trow-Vegas with Abbamania at The Civic. Whereas it’s a Britpop tribute double-header at the Melksham Assembly Hall with Oasis Maybe and Ultimate Stone Roses, and always worth catching, The Blue Rose Band play The Talbot Inn, Calne.

Would you Adam & Eve it, Sunday March 8th is my birthday? Thank you, it’s just a number. Not spoiled for choice as I’ve only one gig listed at the moment, but I do love the White Bear, where Phil Jinder Dewhurst continues their regular Sunday Sessions. Talking Sunday sessions, Swindon promoters Songs of Praise do similar at The Tuppenny, find the Richard Wileman & the Amy Fry Experience there this Sunday 8th.

Week 2

Second week of March then, then we’re done and you go vacuum the hallway, or whatever else is outstanding; never ends, does it? Extinction Rebellion Devizes and Marlborough holds workshop “Roots of a Regenerative Culture,” Monday 7pm at The Barge on Honey Street. This training demystifies how to make everything we do regenerative and, as such, it is the key to understanding how to build resilience within ourselves and our communities.

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Tuesday 10th there be a Quiz Night at The Vaults, Devizes in aid of Opendoors. And the Devizes Film Club has a Mexican movie, The Chambermaid (15) at the Town Hall. Director Lila Avilés’ first film quietly pulses with life in a multi-storey luxury hotel in Mexico. We see the engrossing work of a young, single mother trying her best to be promoted by thorough work, and to study in what spare time she is allowed. There is no life-saving Hollywood romance, just the drudgery of her daily work, problems with her fellow workers and managers and her efforts to improve her life. Cartol acts with sublime understanding of her role. With persistence and wry humour, she rearranges her tasks for variety, wickedly teases the window-cleaners, goes to evening classes and reads Jonathan Livingston Seagull. A subtle gem of a film, beautifully shot against the boring and colourless back-rooms, lush guest-rooms and the stunning city views.

Wednesday 11th at Marlborough’s Merchants House Michael Hart presents “Protestantism and the English Character.” While one of the most intriguing and exciting collaborations on today’s folk scene, Peter Knight, legendary violinist and ex-Bellowhead member John Spiers brings an evening of improvisation and invention of mysterious tunes to Pound Arts in Corsham. In Devizes, it’s time again for the acoustic jam at the trusty Southgate.

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Blossoms

Blossoms play the Bath Forum on Thursday 12th, revealing their new album, Foolish Loving Spaces. They explain, “The album is a pure celebration of love in all of its splendid and baffling guises, toying with the so-called sins of lust and forbidden infatuation. It’s inspired by a summer spent listening to ‘Stop Making Sense’, ‘The Joshua Tree’ & ‘Screamadelica’.” If you’re in Swindon though, head for The Tuppenny, where the awesome Jake Martin and Jess Silk perform acoustic. Acoustic, made for Thursday, eh? If you disagree, check out the Winchester Gate, Salisbury where top Ramones tribute, The Ramonas are guaranteed to liven it up.

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The Lost Trades

Friday is the night when the county finally gets ready for the debut gig of super-group The Lost Trades. Highly anticipated amalgamation of our good friends, Phil Cooper, Jamie R Hawkins and Tamsin Quin. We wish you the very best of luck, guys. They’ll be supported by Timid Deer and Vince Bell at Trowbridge’s Village Pump.

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Meanwhile, keeping Kalm ‘n’ Kind in Devizes, there’s a Restorative Yoga class with Kim Pierpoint, a Fundraising Quiz Evening for Opendoors at 7.30. Philippa and Declan Morgan are running the quiz at Wiltshire Museum. Tickets £10, including nibbles and a glass of wine. Reserve your ticket online and pay on the door! https://devizesopendoors.yapsody.com/event/index/533176/quiz-evening

On my never-ending list to do is get to “Pelly,” kudos for putting on live music gigs, guys, just got work early in the mornings! Drew Bryant is live at The Pelican Inn on Friday, Lewis Clark & The Essentials with folk, soul, and blues at The Southgate, and there’s a Queen tribute called The Bohemians at the Corn Exchange. Comedy Night at Bradford’s Boat House with Jake Lambert, and the amazing Frank Turner plays Bath Forum.

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Lewis Clark & The Essentials

Tuesday is St Patrick’s Day, but Devizes’ Cavalier can’t wait, and present a St Patrick’s theme weekend with those brilliant Day Breakers in the Community Hall on Saturday 14th. On the other side, three-piece rock originals, the Lightnin’ Hobos play The Southgate, and if you’re not spoiled for choice this Saturday, I don’t know when you will be, as the one and only Pete Gage plays with Innes Sibun and Jon Amor, all backed by Ruzz Guitar Revue at the Sports Club, corrrrr, that’ll be awesome.

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Extinction Rebellion Devizes and Marlborough are back at the The Barge, Honeystreet for a gathering, where the evening presents a stripped back, 3-piece version of Troyka Bristol, Troyka Mala. They play a stormy mixture of traditional and original songs and rhythms from the former Yugoslavia and the Balkans with brushes of Klezmer and the Middle East; intrigued? I am.

Powerhouse Gospel Choir play Melksham Assembly Hall while Jon Hopkins is at Bath Forum. For something more off planet, stoner rock and electro art-punk are promised at the Three Horseshoes, Bradford on Avon, with Head Noise, Conspiracy of Chaplains and The Forgetting Curve.

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That’s about all, we will follow this up with the final fortnight of March, when I get around to it. I do, though wish I’d stop promising these things! One thing you can depend on, Saturday in Swindon will rock with Splat The Rat at The Merlin on Drove Road, unfortunately, I cannot recommend Talk In Code’s new single Talk Like That enough, see our review. Note, the launch party is at the Castle on this particular Saturday, the 14th, and I can’t think of a better way to finish this lengthy roundup off!

© 2017-2020 Devizine (Darren Worrow)
Please seek permission from the Devizine site and any individual author, artist or photographer before using any content on this website. Unauthorised usage of any images or text is forbidden.

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Can You Dig It? Craig Charles Plays the City Hall

This’ll make you repel; Red Dwarf first aired thirty-two years ago! Sci-fi comedy would never be the same again after Lister roamed his empty mining vessel asking the ship’s computer where the crew were and curiously licking piles of dust he randomly found. There was an irresistible contrast between Rob Grant and Doug Naylor’s protagonist and his antagonist, Arnold J Rimmer, elevated by the brilliance the two actors bought to the roles. Dave Lister was an endearing anti-hero, a cool but lovable ragamuffin.

Corrie aside, everything Craig Charles has done since is cool; undoubtedly, he’s not typecast, as his Funk & Soul Show surely proves; he really is this cool. A decade of broadcasting on BBC 6 Music with a primetime Saturday night show, I’d prey in the absence of a Radio 2 presenter, Craig would be the one drafted in as relief. The show frequently goes on the road, locally playing the Cheese & Grain, Meca Swindon, and some of that magic he brings to Salisbury City Hall on 11th October 2019.

craig“When BBC 6Music asked me to do a radio show I only had one condition,” Craig explained, “it has to be a funk and soul show, otherwise I wasn’t interested.” Live every Saturday night with an assortment of classic gems and emerging artists, Craig has garnered global support as one of the UK’s foremost Funk and Soul commentators, DJ’s and promoters of new music. The only quality soul classics he hasn’t played yet, are by Rastabilly Skank!

“Since its inception I have been interested in all varieties of soul and funk music, without imposing any barriers and I am just as enthusiastic about fresh new talent as I am about the classic artists from the golden age of the 60s and 70s,” he continued.

Guest-listed legends have been on The Funk and Soul Show; Gil-Scott Heron, James Brown, Roy Ayers, Cymande, Marlena Shaw, Paul Weller, Primal Scream, Terry Callier, Candi Staton, and Marva Whitney. Hip hops acts included, The Roots and the Jungle Brothers, as well as the leading players of the new school Kokolo, Cut Chemist, Sharon Jones, Osaka Monaurail, Amp Fiddler, Amy Winehouse, The New Mastersounds, Smoove and Turrell, Quantic, The Apples, The Grits, JTQ, and The Fusion Experience.

Craig Charles has captivated crowds throughout the UK, playing a plethora of festivals, and a monthly residency at Manchester’s Band on The Wall. Him, and his trunk of funk DJs, present a night of soul-hitting funk, ‘can-you-dig-it’ attitude and dance-floor jivin’. The monthly is currently one of the most anticipated nights in Manchester’s scene.

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Winner of the 2018 Smirnoff Equalizing Music DJ competition, DJ Emma supports Craig at The City Hall, so arrive early to get the full flavour of the biggest funk & Soul party to hit Salisbury this Autumn!

Tickets are priced at £18.00 (plus. Booking fee) Available here: www.cityhallsalisbury.co.uk – www.seetickets.com – www.eventbrite.co.uk – www.gigantic.com

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What a May Day! Things to do Next Month; Part 1

Now your Easter eggs are nothing but screwed up tin foil it’s time to look towards May, and what’s in store for us during this early summer month. Part one, let’s get the first fortnight over and done with.

 

Week 1: Wednesday 1st May – Sunday 5th

 

First day of the month is a Wednesday, so it’s the regular acoustic jam down the Southgate, Devizes, an open Mic at The New Inn, Semington or a live stream of the The Royal Opera: Faust at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon.

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Thursday 2nd jabs at your funny bone, when the Moonrakers Comedy Night sets into the Cellar Bar, Devizes. Ed Pownall presents headliner Sol Bernstein, returning after twenty-five years of semi-retirement, only playing nursing homes. He’s performed all over the world at venues including The London Palladium, New York’s Carnegie Hall, The Paris Olympia, Caesars Palace Las Vegas, and Scunthorpe Baths, but it’s at night clubs where Sol really comes to life. With opener, Craig Deeley, a finalist in Jongleurs Last Laugh competition, and an additional special guest, tickets are £10, available form: The Bear Hotel, Devizes Books, The British Lion, The Southgate Inn, The Vaults, and on-line at “We Got Tickets.”

Along with a Charity Quiz Night for the British Heart Foundation at The Owl, Bromham, Swindon’s masters of downbeat, slack indie and wobbly pop, the Flour Babies bring an acoustic set to The Tuppenny with support by Callum McLean. Meanwhile, Chapel Arts in Bath has Will Lawton & Weasel Howlett (feat Buddy Fonzarelli) with support by our favourite, Tamsin Quin; Devizine is the #officialtamsinquinfanclub

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The second ale, cider and sausage festival, Hopdog, at the Woodbridge, Pewsey, kicks off Friday 3rd. Three days of family mayhem for a £10 advanced ticket, £3 for 12+ and children under 12 free. You can camp, for £7, space is limited so please book early via email: woodbridgeinnpewsey@gmail.com Friday sees Grizzly & The Grasshoppers. Saturday: Bob Bowles, Brian Stone, Jazz Wrann & The Ruby Welts and Sunday, firm Devizine favourites, the Larkin boys will be with Fly Yeti Fly and Kit Trigg.

Another festival in Blandford starts, the Teddy Rocks, in aid of Children’s Cancer, with a tribute-based line-up: details here: https://teddyrocks.co.uk/

Over in Devizes, the family club has Hariana, the UK’s number 1 tribute to Ariana Grande, and rumour has it, Vinyl Realm will host another fantastic Drum n Bass night at the Lamb, unconfirmed as of yet. Melksham Assembly Hall boasts Jethro’s The Count of Cornwall tour, while the Neeld have Queen II, and Bradford’s Wiltshire Music Centre hosts the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. But if you like it raw, the Back-Wood Redeemers are at The Royal Oak, Bath.

Star Wars Day, oh yeah, bank hols too, Saturday 4th May, it’s over to Urchfont, for the Scarecrow Festival; always a lovely family day, starts at 9:30 through to Monday.

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Saturday night in Devizes is about rum and reggae at the Wyvern Club, where Michelle and Stuart Field’s Muck and Dunder rum bar hosts Swindon’s finest SN Dubstation while you dip into forty types of rum, ah-ha me hearties, tenner a ticket from https://www.muckanddunder.co.uk/ or failing that, dependable The Southgate has the great Sunset Service, free as always.

Out and about, you only need to get as far as Seend for beer, yep, it’s that time again for the Seend Beer Fest, their 19th, they know what they’re doing; gawd blimey, Train to Skaville will be there; love them. Certainly, reggae filled weekend though, with The Bob Marley Revival headlining Melksham Townfest at the football club, with Falling Fish, The Decibelles and whaaaa???? Train to Skaville will be there too??; must be an express train. The Ultimate Stone Roses are at the Assembly Hall, over in Bradford on Avon the NYJO Ambassadors and Mark Armstrong are at the Wiltshire Music Centre.

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Swindon has “kids for a quid” at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway, PinkMac at The Waiting Room and some groovy Disco Voodoo, with DJ Ashley Beedle at Baila Coffee & Vinyl.

Spring in the Park is a family fun-day in Warminster on Sunday 5th, or round up the weekend at The Southgate, with a band I’ve heard only good things about, The Astral Ponies. Swindon has the cool indie-sixties mod band, Six O’clock Circus at The Woodlands Edge, and Bath has Pigstock at The Pig and Fiddle; two stages, with Falling Fish, Pompadour, Cut Throat Francis, The White Lakes, Luna Lake, Jamie Watson, Eilis Tucker, and our own favourite, Mr George Wilding.

Week 2: Monday 6th May – Sunday 12th

 

Bank holiday innt? Those Devizes Lions have the May Day Fair in the Market Place, and Corn Exchange from 9am- 4pm. On similar lines as previous years, but in addition to trades and charities, a new class of stall is being introduced, for artisans who produce goods for direct sale to the public.

Sound Knowledge Marlborough are celebrating the holiday with a bang, with Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes from midday in Club Thirty8, for a wristbands-only short set, after which they’ll be in the shop signing copies of new album ‘End of Suffering’.

Wednesday is acoustic jam at the Southgate. Thursday is regular Kinks tribute, Kast off Kinks  at the Assembly Hall, Melksham, but if you think there’s too many broken hearts in the world, head for the Cheese & Grain, yeah, yeah, I know; Jason Donovan.

Friday 10th sees Tom C Walker at the Long Street Blues Club, Teddy White Band returning to The Southgate, and legendary punk poet, Dr John Cooper Clarke at The Corn Exchange. English comedian and writer, Mark Steel gives contemporary rants with his Every Little Thing’s Gonna Be Alright show at Melksham Assembly Hall.

Sam Sweeney’s The Unfinished Violin at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon and Sharron Shannon Band & Seckou Keita at the Cheese & Grain, Frome.

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Saturday 11th start the day browsing the Stert Car Boot Sale, it’s Devizes Cancer Research’s grandest event, supported by Grist, please come and help make a difference to this invaluable charity.

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In all actual fact, it’s a very charitable day in Devizes; yep, we’ve our first Devizine Presents gig at the Cellar Bar. If you like Larkin, then it’s a double-whammy, because while Fin and Sam will be there, it’ll be possibly the only place to see them both, separately, Sam with a newly formed band and Fin with cousin Harvey as the Truzzy Boys. If that’s not enough for you, The Hound on the Mountain, the incredible Jordan Whatley will also be showing off his new songs and Gail Foster I will be in charge of intervals with her spellbinding and, possibly, rude poems. It’s a fiver or whatever you can donate, in aid of Devizes Opendoor; so please come down.

Opps, UPDATE ALERT! Please see the poster above for a change in schedule, unfortunately Sam had to pull out, but every clown has a silver lifeboat, hurrah for sixties mod-rock covers band, The Roughcut Rebels, who’ve stepped in to save the day and will be sure to add an extra dimension to the festivities.

If my thing ain’t your thing, I might just forgive you, especially if you try the Devizes Town Band’s concert, “Greatest Love Themes,” which will be raising funds for Alzheimer’s Support at 7:30pm, The Corn Exchange. In a change from the traditional black, band members will be wearing some other colours to make the concert more dementia friendly. I can identify with this; my nan suffered this terrible ailment.

Some people living with dementia see a black mat or flooring as a bottomless black hole, which is understandably very scary. They can also see people wearing black as floating heads, because they cannot identify black clothes.

townband

Babs Harris, CEO of Alzheimer’s Support said: “People’s perceptions can change when they have dementia and it is fascinating to hear from some of them how they now see colours. It is so heartening that Devizes Town Band have taken this on board for their concert and taken this extra step to make their performance truly inclusive and dementia-friendly. It promises to be a wonderful evening of music and the bright colours will only add to the celebratory atmosphere.” Tickets are £7.50 and you can get them from Devizes Books, or online via www.devizestownband.com

 
Alternatively, Hip Route are live at The Southgate, and the brilliant Indecision at The Owl, Bromham.

 
In Marlborough The Skandals are at The Lamb and Room 101 are at The Bear. The Blue Rose Band at The Pilot, Melksham. London Mozart Players at Wiltshire Music Centre, Bradford on Avon, Operation 77 at The Woodlands Edge, Swindon. Martin Kemp’s Back to the 80’s at Cheese & Grain, Frome; take your own Rubix Cube.

 
For want a peaceful Sunday on the 12th the Marlborough and District Lions Club welcomes you to drive through the glorious bluebells at Westwoods, enjoy the Bluebells and help support your local Lions Club. This repeats again next Sunday.
Time travelling magicians Morgan & West present a jaw dropping, heart stopping, brain busting, opinion adjusting, death defying, mind frying, spirit lifting, paradigm shifting, outlook changing, furniture rearranging magic extravaganza at the Neeld in Chippenham Sunday afternoon, promising to be fun for ages 5 to 105.

 
That’s about it for the first two weeks of May, if you think it’s jam-packed you need to see the finale part of May’s what’s on article, which I’m working on now, okay – cut me some slack! But before I go, remember to check devizine.com regularly, as it’s updated, like, nearly every day, and you might well miss something.

 
Also, please shed my workload by letting me know about your event, or news stories; there’s only so much scrolling and clicking I can do. You can email your info to devizine@hotmail.com Tweet, message the Facebook page, or I now have a Facebook group called The Devizine Communications Group, to make it super easy to make me aware of your events and gigs and news and stuff, so use it, don’t abuse it, love it and get some free publicity for your efforts.

 
Most of all though, don’t whinge at me for omitting something if you haven’t actually told me about it, sounds bleeding obvious I know but you’d be surprised by that amount of people who do!

 

Hey, hey, hey; I have actually followed this article up, click the image to go to the rest of the month’s preview!

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Adverts & All That!

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Wiltshire Council Welcome Proposed Road Signs

Since a Wiltshire Council highway engineer advised Devizes Town Council that a sign at the High Street junction with Long Street is not big enough or in the right position last week, the highway engineer has been around our area suggesting other improvements which must be enforced for safety purposes.

 
Devizes Town Councillors were warned people might not spot the present ‘No Entry’ sign, and that it needs to be 600 CMs wide, wider than the road itself. “Maybe even larger, the bigger the better,” said a Wiltshire Council spokesperson, the one who really has the mentality to grasp simple English. “If it means we have to knock down a few historic buildings to make room, then we will.”

 
“We’d really favour,” the spokesman continued, “that the sign is lit with flashing neon letter-lights and overhead floodlights, twenty-four hours a day. Perhaps, it could also repetitively play a Bonnie Tyler song, or even the soundtrack to Rocky 4, to raise awareness of it too.”

 
“Devizes Town Council is clearly not accounting for the prerogative of speeding businessmen in BMWs belting through Devizes without a finger of fudge to road safety. They may have important calls to make on their phones, be preoccupied trying to locate a Starbucks, or generally too busy eyeing up totty to notice the clearly one-way street has standard no entry signs.”

 
The Wiltshire Council spokesperson, who cannot be named because their nametag fell out of their work jumper, because their mum didn’t iron it on well enough, stated, “those who think there’s no accounting for stupidity are wrong. One blast of ‘Eye of the Tiger’ or ‘Holding out for a Hero’ will alert the most insensitive arsehole; it’s certainly one of my favourite songs.”

 
With this apparent compete lack of competence of town councils to identify these issues, the Wiltshire Council highway engineer has proposed a new selection of signs be erected in obvious danger areas, using visual aids rather than a report, as he can only write in emoji.

 
Devizine has received these exclusive graphic representations for residents to swoon over in delight. I asked the Wiltshire Council spokesperson if he thought they were slightly aesthetically intrusive. “No,” he replied, “I think athletes will love them too.”

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Adverts & All That!

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